One of the most common inherited gene variants causing pre-disposition of cancer is the BRCA mutant. The genetic variants of genes are harmful as it tends to form cancer or develop other diseases. One of the common genetic variants that can cause breast, ovarian and prostate cancer is the BRCA gene mutation.
BRCA Variation – All You Need to Know
BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are tumor suppressor genes known for repairing damaged DNA. Every individual has two copies of each BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene, one copy inherited from each parent. The presence of harmful variant turns BRCA into breast cancer gene, however, the presence of variation does not mean it will cause cancer but increase the risk or future probability.
These inherited mutations are also called a germline mutations. An offspring of a parent who carries the mutation in one of these genes has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutation. The presence of such a variant increases a woman’s chance of developing breast or ovarian cancer.
The BRCA test is a highly recommended genetic testing for breast cancer as a form of preventive care. The test is highly recommended for women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. In case an individual is tested positive for BRCA gene variation, it helps in making lifestyle changes or undertaking preventive surgery for reducing chances of cancer onset.
Who should Get the BRCA Gene testing done?
BRCA variation is one of the most common cancer hereditary diseases. It accounts for nearly 20 to 25% of inherited breast cancer. Although anyone can take the test with help of genetic counselling and a checkup, here are the conditions that make one an ideal candidate for genetic testing.
- A family history with breast or ovarian or prostate cancer or personal history of breast cancer detected before 45 years.
- BRCA variation or mutation in any one of the parents.
- Detection of any form of cancer at a young age or different forms of cancer in the same person.
- The presence of birth defects is associated with an inherited form of cancer syndromes like benign tumors.
- Belonging to ethnicity or groups with increased risk of an inherited form of cancer.
Cost of BRCA Genetic Testing
The BRCA testing cost has become quite affordable with time and available across various genetic diagnostic labs across India. The advanced next-generation sequencing technology helps in screening for BRCA variants with high accuracy.
The BRCA testing cost in India can range from Rs 15,000 – 30,000 depending on the lab and the
location. The test cost may vary depending on the number of genes sequenced and the application of the technology. Pre-genetic counselling is provided to help with all the information before the test. Extensive genetic counselling by certified counsellors is available for the next steps in case the test results come out to be positive.
