BRCA1 and BRCA2 Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, & More

Introduction to BRCA1 & BRCA2 Test

The BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutation analysis test by NGS is a genetic test to identify mutations (harmful changes) in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes produce proteins that help repair damaged DNA. Knowing that mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can impair DNA repair is imperative. This can result in uncontrolled hair growth and cancer development. People who inherit mutations in these genes are at a higher risk of developing breast and ovarian cancer. 

About 7% of families have the BRCA1 gene associated with multiple breast cancers, and 40% of families have ovarian cancer. On the other hand, 20% of families have the BRCA2 gene associated with ovarian and breast cancer 

In other words, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor suppressor genes whose mutations can notably increase the risk of developing epithelial cancers, including breast, ovarian, prostate, and other cancers. 

Symptoms associated with a BRCA1 and BRCA2 are a painless lump in the breast, a change in the breast size or shape, nipple discharge or nipple change, and dimpling of the breast’s skin. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 test is not routinely performed. It may be suggested when a healthcare provider suspects symptoms or if you are likely to have an inherited mutation based on your personal or family history of breast and ovarian cancer. 

Do not delay, whether suggested or when your doctor asks you to get tested. Make it your priority to book a BRCA1 & BRCA2 test online from a reputed pathology lab, Redcliffe Labs. We offer routine and specialized tests with a home sample collection. The reports for the BRCA test are typically available within 14 days. 

Early and accurate diagnosis using appropriate screenings when you have risk factors can help determine whether or not you carry a mutation. Additionally, if cancer does occur, it can be diagnosed early.

Test Details:

What is the purpose of a BRCA1 & BRCA2 Test?

The BRCA gene test is done to determine the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes are well-known, and their testing often looks for genes that can increase the risk of these cancers. 

The test is primarily performed: 

• Detecting harmful BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations: The primary purpose of a BRCA 1 & BRCA2 test is to detect harmful gene mutations that can elevate the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. 
• Assess the hereditary cancer risk: A healthcare provider may also suggest the test if you have a family history of these cancers. Additionally, professionals recommend that women who have inherited harmful changes in BRCA1 and BRCA2 start breast cancer screening at younger ages with MRI and mammography. 
• Helps in early cancer prevention and management: The test plays a crucial role in early cancer prevention and management, particularly in breast and ovarian cancer. Early detection through genetic testing for BRCA mutations helps a doctor identify if you are at higher risk of breast, ovarian, prostate, colon, stomach, and pancreatic cancer. 

Further, if you have BRCA mutations, a doctor will suggest preventive strategies such as lifestyle modifications, regular screenings, or preventive surgeries. 

• Guides treatment plans: The test also guides a doctor about targeted therapies, such as PARP inhibitors, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, to improve treatment outcomes. 

What are the benefits of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 test?

The benefits of the BRCA1 & BRCA2 mutation analysis test by NGS are as follows:

• Cost-effective: One of the primary benefits of this test is that, due to technological advances, the identification of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations has become cost-effective. This facilitates the goal of identifying the women at risk. 
• Evaluates women with hereditary cancer genetic testing: The test also plays a crucial role in assessing women with hereditary cancer genetic testing. During this cancer genetic testing, a doctor may inquire about family history of breast, ovarian, tubal, or other cancers. 

If questioning reveals increased risk, you may be referred to a certified genetic counsellor (CGC) for further evaluation. 

• Personalized treatment: The BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 tests aid in planning risk-reducing strategies. These may include targeted therapies, lifestyle changes, medications, or preventive surgery. 
• Guides screening frequency: A positive BRCA mutation indicates higher chances of developing cancer but may or may not confirm the diagnosis of cancer. On the other hand, a negative BRCA does not eliminate the risk of developing breast cancer. 

Who should get BRCA testing?

The BRCA 1 gene mutation test is recommended for certain groups of people: 

• Having a family history of breast, ovarian, prostate, or pancreatic cancer. 
• Women, especially between the ages of 18 and 45, with a history of early-onset breast cancer. 
• Men with a history of prostate or breast cancer. Especially at the age of 40, prostate cancer screening is recommended for BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers. Men with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation can easily develop prostate, pancreatic, or even breast cancer (which is rare). 
• The test is also important for those with multiple cancers in the family. 
• Additionally, the BRCA gene mutation detection test is suggested to individuals from high-risk ethnic backgrounds such as a Jewish or Ashkenazi heritage. 

Preparation for the BRCA1 & BRCA2 test

The BRCA gene test requires no preparation. You can eat your regular meals and keep yourself hydrated before the test, but dehydration can make the blood draw difficult. 

Ask your doctor before the test if you need to stop taking your regular medications so that ingredients do not interfere with the BRCA test results. 

Also, doing strenuous exercise before a test can cause hormonal changes. Avoid it. 

Procedure of the BRCA1 & BRCA 2 test

The test’s procedure is simple. It often involves drawing blood by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. The blood sample is then submitted to the lab for DNA testing. 

What do the test results indicate?

Although BRCA gene mutations themselves do not cause symptoms, they increase the risk of cancer with these symptoms: 

Understanding Test Results

• Negative Result—If your BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 test results are negative, it means no mutations were found, but the risk of cancer is still there. 
• Positive Result—A positive BRCA test indicates the presence of a harmful mutation, indicating a higher cancer risk. A healthcare provider may suggest lifestyle modifications, medications, increased screening, or surgery. 
• A variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS) indicates insufficient or conflicting evidence due to an uncertain mutation being detected. Hence, this requires further research or monitoring.

Note: Discuss your report with the expert to help him make an accurate diagnosis and determine appropriate treatments. 

What do the positive test results indicate?

You may have inherited these mutations if you are positive for the BRCA1 & BRCA2 test. This doesn’t mean you have cancer. Consult a genetic counselor for the following: 

• Risk-reducing surgeries: An oncologist may suggest risk-reducing surgeries (prophylactic surgeries) to lower the risk of breast cancer developing. Besides, medications such as tamoxifen may be prescribed as a preventive option. 
• Surveillance breast MRI: It is recommended that surveillance imaging of breast cancer, called annual surveillance mammography or MRI scan, be performed. 
• Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, managing weight, and regular exercise, can help lower cancer risk. 

What are the common symptoms that may indicate BRCA mutations?

As hinted above, no specific symptoms are caused by a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation. A doctor may prescribe a test and appropriate screenings if you have the risk of cancers with these symptoms: 

1. Symptoms of breast cancer in women: 

• a lump or swelling in your breast
• Changes in breast skin, such as dimpling
• A change in the size of your breasts
• Nipple discharge 
• Inverted nipple
• Pain in your breast or armpit 

2. Symptoms of ovarian cancer in women: 

• Abdominal bloating.
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly.
• Frequent urination.
• Back, abdominal, or pelvic pain.
• Constipation or diarrhoea.
• menstrual irregularities.

3. Symptoms of prostate cancer in men: 

• Blood in urine
• Difficulty urinating
• Pelvic pain
• Frequent urination
• Weak urine stream
• Blood in semen

BRCA1 & BRCA2 Test Price - Redcliffe Labs

BRCA Mutation Analysis Test By NGS is a valuable tool that the experts use to assess your risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer. A positive BRCA test result shows a higher probability of developing cancer, allowing for proactive measures to reduce the risk of progression, causing complications that can’t be managed. On the other hand, a negative result doesn’t eliminate the cancer risk—appropriate preventive steps are to be taken based on family history or other risk factors. 

The price of a BRCA1 and BRCA 2 test is INR 14,000 only at Redcliffe Labs. Call us at 898 898 87 87 or download the Redcliffe Labs mobile app to book a test online. 

BRCA1 & BRCA2 Test Cost in Different Cities

Note: We also offer BRCA1 & BRCA2 Test PAN India. Please call on the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

Step-by-step information on booking a test online from Redcliffe Labs. 

1. Visit the official Redcliffe Labs website: https://redcliffelabs.com/.
2. Browse or search for the specific test you need. 
3. Add the test to the cart. 
4. Complete the payment process online.

Note: You will receive confirmation through SMS and WhatsApp.