Genetic full cancer risk test in Chiswick

What the test measures

This is our widest hereditary cancer panel, reading 94 genes in which inherited variants have been associated with a raised chance of cancer. It brings together genes linked with breast, ovarian, bowel, womb, prostate and pancreatic cancer, plus genes connected with rarer inherited syndromes affecting the skin, kidneys, thyroid, nervous system and other organs.

The test uses DNA from a blood sample and looks only at what you inherited. It does not detect cancer, measure tumour-associated markers or show anything about your current health, and it is designed to sit alongside, never replace, NHS screening programmes.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. With so many genes, we recommend that every result is discussed with a genetic counsellor or specialist, who can put it in the context of your family tree.

Who it is for

• Your family history includes several different types of cancer, so a single-cancer panel may not cover it.
• Relatives were diagnosed with cancer at unusually young ages.
• One person in your family has had more than one separate cancer.
• You have been told a rare inherited cancer syndrome may run in your family.
• You have limited information about your family history and would like a broad starting point to discuss with a specialist.

Understanding your result

Most people have no pathogenic variant found. When one is found, your report names the gene and the variant, and a specialist can explain which cancers it is associated with and what surveillance the NHS recommends. Larger panels are more likely to show a variant of uncertain significance, which is not usually acted on until more is known.

A negative result does not remove all risk, because most cancers develop without a single inherited cause and science has not identified every relevant gene. Any finding is a reason for a specialist conversation, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

You can eat and drink normally and take your usual medicines, as no fasting is needed. Before your appointment, it helps to note which relatives had cancer, what type and at what age, and to bring any genetic reports from family members. Tell us if you have had a bone marrow transplant or have a blood cancer.

You can look up individual markers in our biomarker A to Z, or browse every blood test and price in Chiswick, including our general health checks.

Questions

How much is a genetic full cancer risk test in Chiswick?

The Genetic Full Cancer Risk test is £1,045. It includes your blood sample in Chiswick, sequencing of 94 genes at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

Should I choose this or a smaller genetic panel?

If your family history points clearly to one cancer type, a focused panel may be enough. The broad panel suits families with several cancer types or an unclear history, and your practitioner can help you decide.

What is a variant of uncertain significance?

It is a change in a gene where there is not yet enough evidence to say whether it affects risk. Most are later found to be harmless, and decisions are not normally based on them.

Will my result be shared with my family?

No. Your result is confidential and shared only with you, and with your GP if you ask. You may choose to tell relatives, and a genetics service can help with that.