Who should consider BRCA testing
Most people don't need a genetic test. It's most useful when your personal or family history suggests a gene change may be running in the family.
Signs an inherited risk may be worth checking
- Several relatives on the same side of the family with breast or ovarian cancer
- A relative with a known BRCA variant
- Breast or ovarian cancer diagnosed at a young age in the family
- Ashkenazi Jewish heritage (the three common founder variants are covered)
- A male relative with breast cancer
- You want to inform screening or prevention decisions
- You're planning a family and want to understand inherited risk
- Bowel, prostate, pancreatic or melanoma cancers in several relatives
The test is for adults aged 18 and over, testing their own sample.
How BRCA risk runs in families
A 1 in 2 chance
If a parent carries a BRCA variant, each of their children has a 1 in 2 chance of inheriting it.
Both sides of the family
Variants pass down through fathers as well as mothers. Men can carry them and pass them on, and carriers have a higher risk of some cancers, including male breast and prostate cancer.
Known family variant
If a relative has already tested positive, tell your counsellor. Knowing the family variant helps interpret your result.
When NHS testing may be the better route
NHS clinical genetics services offer free testing to people who meet criteria based on their personal and family history, for example a strong family history or a relative with a known variant. If you think you may qualify, ask your GP about a referral.
Private testing suits people who don't meet those criteria, or who would rather test directly.
Have symptoms? A genetic test does not check for cancer. If you notice a breast lump or change, persistent bloating, pelvic pain or other worrying symptoms, see your GP promptly rather than waiting for a test.
Think this test could be right for you?
Order online, give your sample at home and talk your result through with a qualified genetic counsellor.
- 36 genes, including BRCA1, BRCA2 and PALB2
- ISO 15189 accredited UK laboratory
- Genetic counselling before and after your test
- Results reviewed by Northwest Health clinicians
- Free UK shipping and discreet packaging