BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genetic Testing in the UK
In the UK, genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 breast/ovarian cancer genes is inefficient and incomplete.
- Waiting time for appointments can be as long as nine months in two (11%) of the 19 regional genetics centers surveyed by CancerBACUP.
- In one-third (32%) of genetics centres there is a more than six month wait.
- At five genetics centers (26%), there is a wait of one to two years for genetic testing results.
- Only six out of 12 (50%) molecular genetics labs were currently testing 100% of all the BRCA gene variations linked to breast cancer. It would take two years to clear the backlog of women who were tested for only 60% of the BRCA genes.
What does this say about the British medical system? I’ll find out firsthand when I move to London next month.
BBC News, December 14, 2005
Dear Editor,
With great interest I read your latest article on the test delays in the UK for genetic predisposition to breast cancer (BRCA testing).
Complete analysis of both BRCA genes should not take longer than 2 months, and if the mutation in the family is already now the test can be performed in a few weeks.
GENDIA, a European network of genetic labs (www.GENDIA.net) offers combined testing for both BRCA genes with a turnaround time of 6 weeks for a total of 950 Pounds or 1400 Euro.
GENDIA ‘ s test includes complete sequencing of both genes combined with MLPA , the latest technology to detect gene deletions.
This BRCA testing is freely available, also in the UK.
With kind regards,
Patrick Willems, MD, PhD
Director GENDIA network
Email : willemspatrick@skynet.be
website : http://www.GENDIA.net
Address : GENDIA
Amerikalei 62
2000 Antwerp
Belgium
Phone : – 323 – 303.08.01
Fax : – 323 – 238.77.70
Dr. Willems: Thank you for your comment. I hope GENDIA proves to be a resource for many who need genetic testing in the Europe.
Hello! I would like to know what is the procedure for patients from india to get tested for BRCA1 AND BRCA2 genes for breast cancer , how long does it take and how much does it cost.