Understanding your genetic risk is the first step toward early detection and prevention of hereditary cancers. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic test helps identify mutations linked to a significantly higher chance of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer. At DNA Labs India, this advanced test is available at an affordable cost of ₹15,000, with reports delivered in 3–4 weeks.
What Are BRCA1 and BRCA2 Genes?
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumor suppressor genes. Their role is to repair DNA damage and prevent cancerous growths in the body. When these genes carry harmful mutations, they lose their protective effect, leading to increased risks of certain cancers.
- Women with BRCA1 mutations are more likely to develop breast and ovarian cancers at a younger age.
- BRCA2 mutations also raise the risk of breast, ovarian, as well as prostate cancer in men.
- Each child of a parent with a BRCA mutation has a 50% chance of inheriting it.
How Much Does a BRCA Mutation Increase Cancer Risk?
Breast Cancer Risk
- General population risk: 12% of women may develop breast cancer during their lifetime.
- With BRCA1 mutation: 55–65% risk by age 70.
- With BRCA2 mutation: Around 45% risk by age 70.
Ovarian Cancer Risk
- General population risk: 1.3% lifetime risk.
- With BRCA1 mutation: 39% risk.
- With BRCA2 mutation: 11–17% risk.
This means that carrying a BRCA mutation places you at a much higher lifetime risk compared to women without the mutation.
Why Should You Consider BRCA Testing?
You may benefit from a BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic test if you:
- Have a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer.
- Have a male relative diagnosed with breast cancer.
- Have a close relative with a known BRCA mutation.
- Have had cancer at a younger age than usual.
Types of BRCA Tests Available
- BRCA1 & BRCA2 Single Test – Identifies harmful mutations in both genes.
- Extended Breast-Ovarian Cancer Genetic Panel – Includes BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, PTEN, STK11, PALB2, CHEK2, ATM, NBN, BARD1, BRIP1, and RAD51C genes for comprehensive risk assessment.
| Test Name | Genes Covered | Price | Report Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| BRCA1 & BRCA2 Test | BRCA1, BRCA2 | ₹15,000 | 3–4 weeks |
| Extended Breast-Ovarian Cancer Panel | BRCA1, BRCA2 + 30 more genes | ₹20,000 | 3–4 weeks |
How is the Test Done?
The BRCA test requires just a blood or saliva sample. The sample is analyzed using Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology for precise detection of gene mutations.
Benefits of BRCA Testing
- Helps in early cancer prevention and management.
- Enables timely screening and targeted therapies if needed.
- Provides guidance for family members to assess their cancer risk.
- Supports doctors in creating personalized treatment plans.
Cost of BRCA1 and BRCA2 Test in India
At DNA Labs India, the BRCA1 & BRCA2 Test costs ₹15,000, with free home sample collection available across major Indian cities. The comprehensive breast-ovarian cancer gene panel costs ₹20,000.
Key Cities Offering Service
DNA Labs India provides BRCA testing services in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and 100+ other cities across India.
Final Thoughts
Hereditary breast and ovarian cancers are preventable with the right awareness and timely genetic testing. If you have a family history of cancer, consult your doctor about BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing. Taking proactive steps today could save your life or the lives of your loved ones.
FAQS
What is the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic test?
The BRCA test analyzes BRCA1 and BRCA2 tumor suppressor genes to find harmful variants that raise the risk of hereditary breast and ovarian cancers, helping enable early surveillance and preventive care.
Who should consider BRCA testing?
Testing is recommended for individuals with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer, early-onset cancers, a male relative with breast cancer, or a known familial BRCA mutation after appropriate genetic counseling.
How much does the BRCA test cost and how long do results take?
The BRCA1 & BRCA2 test is priced at ₹15,000, with a broader breast–ovarian cancer panel at ₹20,000, and reports are typically delivered within 3–4 weeks including post-test counseling guidance.
What sample is required and what technology is used?
A blood sample in an EDTA tube is typically collected and analyzed using Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to accurately detect clinically relevant variants across targeted gene regions.
What does a positive BRCA result mean?
A positive result indicates a pathogenic variant in BRCA1 or BRCA2, which elevates cancer risk and may prompt enhanced screening, risk-reducing strategies, consideration of targeted therapies, and cascade testing for relatives.
What does a negative BRCA result mean?
A negative result means no pathogenic BRCA variant was detected, but overall risk assessment should still account for personal and family history, and further testing may be advised if suspicion remains high.
Can men benefit from BRCA testing?
Yes, men with BRCA mutations face increased risks of male breast, prostate, and pancreatic cancers, and results guide tailored screening and inform testing decisions for at-risk family members.
Are services available nationwide?
Yes, home sample collection and reporting support are available in major metros and many tier-2/3 locations; services are offered across India.
