Consider these 6 BRCA gene tests you can conduct at home:
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At-home BRCA gene testing kits are revolutionizing the way individuals can identify genetic mutations associated with certain cancers, including breast cancer. These tests offer convenience and lower costs compared to similar tests from healthcare clinics, but they also have advantages and disadvantages.
In this article, we will explore some of the most popular at-home BRCA gene testing kits available on the market and discuss their features, pricing, and results.
tellmeGen DNA Test Advanced
TellmeGen offers an advanced DNA test that takes around 4-6 weeks to return results. This test provides information on 440 genetic traits with links to health and well-being, in addition to BRCA gene mutation results. Customer reviews on tellmeGen state that they provide an "amazing, secure, customizable DNA test!" However, some users have noted that the company offers additional genetic counseling, which can be a valuable resource for interpreting results.
23andMe Personal Genome Service
23andMe is another popular at-home genetic testing company. The test takes around 3-4 weeks to return results and detects three out of over 1,000 BRCA mutations. The Personal Genome Service Genetic Health Risk Report for BRCA1/BRCA2 costs $99, plus $9.99 per month for an optional membership. Customer reviews on 23andMe state that it offers "excellent for real, actionable health information."
However, it is important to note that 23andMe does not provide genetic counseling or follow-up reports, which can be a disadvantage for some users.
Invitae Cancer Screen
Invitae offers medical-grade genetic testing, with results taking 10-21 days to return. The Invitae Cancer Screen costs $250. One of the advantages of Invitae is that it provides access to educational materials and genetic counseling at no extra cost. However, some customer reviews on the Better Business Bureau highlight that while Invitae claims insurance companies will reimburse testing costs, they fail to follow through.
The Ultimate Genome Sequencing Breast Cancer Package
The Ultimate Genome Sequencing Breast Cancer Package provides clinical-grade sequencing and a 1-month Silver membership. This test takes around 8 weeks for results and focuses on the most common pathogenic BRCA1/2 mutations known to significantly elevate cancer risk. The package costs $394. Customer reviews on the Ultimate Genome Sequencing Breast Cancer Package state the test is "easy to understand and guides you through the process in an approachable, calm way." However, it is important to note that the package does not provide genetic counseling.
Nebula Genomics
Nebula Genomics offers deep whole-genome sequencing at a cost of $299, plus a subscription cost of $20 per month. The company takes 12-14 weeks to return results and prides itself on providing quality results ready for interpretation by a doctor or genetic counselor. Customer reviews on Nebula Genomics state that "no [other company] gets even close to the amount of information Nebula gives you." However, it is important to note that Nebula also does not provide genetic counseling.
Privacy and Confidentiality
Privacy and confidentiality are essential concerns when it comes to genetic testing. Both 23andMe and Invitae come with a guarantee of data privacy, while Nebula Genomics guarantees the privacy of personal information. Invitae ensures the confidentiality of results, while Nebula provides quality results ready for interpretation by a doctor or genetic counselor.
Conclusion
At-home BRCA gene testing kits offer a convenient and cost-effective way to identify genetic mutations associated with certain cancers, such as breast cancer. These tests target a core group of well-characterized BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations known for their strong link to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk. However, it is important to consider the limitations of these tests, such as the lack of direct genetic counseling, and to carefully research each company before making a decision.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6236101/ [2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6236101/ [3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6236101/ [4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6236101/ [5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6236101/
- The TellmeGen DNA Test Advanced not only provides information on BRCA gene mutation results but also insights into 440 other genetic traits related to health and wellness, as mentioned in customer reviews.
- The 23andMe Personal Genome Service offers more than just BRCA testing, detecting multiple genetic conditions, as stated in their Genetic Health Risk Report.
- Mental health is an often overlooked aspect of health and wellness, yet some at-home BRCA gene testing companies, such as Invitae, provide educational materials and genetic counseling at no extra cost to address such concerns.
- Skin-care companies may also be focusing on genetic testing, mirroring the increase in at-home BRCA testing, as these tests could potentially identify genetic mutations linked to skin conditions or diseases.
- Women's health, specifically breast cancer, is a primary target for at-home BRCA gene testing, but testing companies are increasingly catering to men's health as well, as seen in the availability of men's health-related tests and resources.
