BRCA Testing

BRCA testing is a genetic test (blood or saliva) that checks for harmful BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, which significantly increase lifetime risk of breast, ovarian and some other cancers. Results help guide personalized prevention and treatment — enhanced screening, risk‑reducing surgery or medications — and can inform relatives. Genetic counseling is recommended before and after testing to explain risks and implications.

In India, BRCA genetic testing typically costs between INR 7,000 and INR 50,000. Single‑gene BRCA1/2 tests or targeted mutation screens are toward the lower end (roughly INR 7,000–20,000), while comprehensive BRCA sequencing or multigene cancer panels can range from about INR 20,000 up to INR 50,000 or more. Prices vary by lab, test type, and confirmatory needs.

BRCA stands for "BReast CAncer" (commonly refers to BRCA1 and BRCA2), which are breast cancer susceptibility genes. Mutations in these tumor-suppressor genes significantly increase risk of breast and ovarian cancers and can be inherited. Testing identifies pathogenic variants to guide risk management, surveillance, and preventive options for individuals and families.

People eligible for BRCA testing include those with personal history of breast cancer diagnosed young (often ≤50), triple‑negative breast cancer under 60, ovarian cancer at any age, multiple primary or bilateral breast cancers, male breast cancer, a first‑ or second‑degree relative with breast/ovarian/pancreatic/high‑grade prostate cancer, a known BRCA mutation in the family, or Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with relevant family history.

If you test positive for a BRCA mutation, you and your clinician will discuss your increased lifetime risk of breast, ovarian, and some other cancers and create a personalized plan. Options include enhanced screening (earlier/more frequent mammography and MRI), risk‑reducing surgeries (mastectomy, salpingo‑oophorectomy), chemoprevention, referral to a genetic counselor, cascade testing for relatives, and emotional/reproductive support.

BRCA testing costs vary widely by country and test type. Single-gene tests may cost a few hundred dollars, while multi-gene panels or comprehensive sequencing can run into the low thousands. Many insurers cover testing when medical criteria are met, and labs, public programs, or charities may offer reduced fees or assistance. Genetic counseling before and after testing is usually recommended.