BRCA Testing: A Simple Blood Test That Could Save You and Your Family from Cancer

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Understanding BRCA Panels and Screening for Hereditary Cancers

Genetic testing has become one of the most powerful tools in modern healthcare, especially in the fight against hereditary cancers such as breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. One of the key markers for these conditions is the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which, when mutated, significantly increase cancer risk.

Why BRCA Testing Matters

According to global guidelines such as NCCN (National Comprehensive Cancer Network), BRCA testing is recommended for individuals with a strong family history of breast, ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer. Early detection of mutations can help guide treatment, prevention, and family screening.

Unique Features (USP) of BRCA Panels

Laboratories like Metropolis offer advanced BRCA testing with several advantages:

  • Accredited Testing: All germline tests are conducted in NABL-accredited labs.

  • Lower Rejection Rates: Unlike many labs with over 30% rejection due to insufficient sample quantity, advanced labs ensure better quality and accuracy.

  • Detailed Interpretation: Results include classification of variants (Pathogenic, Likely Pathogenic, or Variants of Unknown Significance).

  • Comprehensive Testing: Both NGS (Next-Generation Sequencing) and MLPA (Multiplex Ligation-dependent Probe Amplification) are used for higher accuracy, especially in large deletions or duplications.

  • Clinical Relevance: BRCA Germline and Somatic mutations help guide targeted therapies such as PARP inhibitors.

  • Post-Test Genetic Counselling: Patients receive free counselling, and genetic counsellors monitor variants that may later be reclassified as pathogenic.

Types of BRCA Panels Available

  1. NextGen BRCA Germline (Blood Sample) – Detects inherited mutations.

  2. NextGen BRCA Somatic (Tumor Tissue) – Detects mutations directly in tumor cells.

  3. BRCA1 & BRCA2 Deletion/Duplication Analysis – Checks for large genetic changes.

  4. NextGen BRCA Comprehensive Panel (NGS + MLPA) – Combines both methods for full accuracy.

  5. Targeted Mutation Analysis (For Family Members) – Screens relatives if a mutation is detected.

  6. NextGen Hereditary Cancer Panel – Expands testing to include multiple hereditary cancer genes.

How BRCA Screening Works

The screening process follows two main paths:

  • Germline Testing (Blood Sample)

    • If positive → Family members can undergo targeted testing.

    • If negative → Further monitoring may be advised.

  • Somatic Testing (Tumor Tissue)

    • If positive → Germline analysis is done to confirm if it is hereditary.

    • If negative → Alternative genetic factors may be considered.

Who Benefits from BRCA Testing?

  • Individuals with family history of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate cancer.

  • Patients already diagnosed with these cancers, to guide treatment options.

  • Family members of patients with known BRCA mutations.

Conclusion

BRCA testing is more than just a diagnostic tool—it’s a life-saving strategy. It not only helps in identifying cancer risks early but also plays a crucial role in personalized treatment and prevention. With advanced technologies like NGS and MLPA, along with professional genetic counselling, patients and their families can make informed decisions about their health.

👉 Take action today!
If you or your loved ones have a family history of cancer, don’t wait. Book a call with us now for guidance and support:

📞 +254 712 481 874

Early action can make all the difference.

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