Future

23andMe To Bring Cancer Risk Tests Via Mail

23andme cancer risk test dna testing kit fda approved

23andMe, the genetics company that allows you to buy a personal genome service, now has FDA approval to send cancer risks tests to consumers.

You’ll be able to order a kit online that tests for BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 genes. Mutations in these genes have been linked to a higher risk of ovarian and breast cancer. Just like the Ancestry kit, it will be delivered straight to your home.

The company announced today that this cancer risk test is a premiere in the world of direct-to-consumer genetics.

“Being the first and only direct-to-consumer genetics company to receive FDA authorization to test for cancer risk without a prescription is a major milestone for 23andMe and for the consumer. We believe it’s important for consumers to have direct and affordable access to this potentially life-saving information,” said CEO Anner Wojcicki in the press release.

However, some scientists pointed out that the 23andMe cancer test does not cover all risk factors, only highlighting 3 out of hundreds of possible gene mutations. Moreover, it should not replace a doctor’s visit by any means. Here’s what the FDA approval press release had to say:

“Consumers and health care professionals should not use the test results to determine any treatments, including anti-hormone therapies and prophylactic removal of the breasts or ovaries. Such decisions require confirmatory testing and genetic counseling. The test also does not provide information on a person’s overall risk of developing any type of cancer. The use of the test carries significant risks if individuals use the test results without consulting a physician or genetic counselor.”

In any case, the 23andMe initiative is still an impressive breakthrough for a consumer oriented biotech firm and paves the way for easier and at home diagnoses. 

Follow TechTheLead on Google News to get the news first.

Subscribe to our website and stay in touch with the latest news in technology.

Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Must Read

Are you looking for the latest innovations in tech? You're in the right place, just subscribe to our RSS feed


Techthelead Romania     Comedy Store

Copyright © 2016 - 2023 - TechTheLead.com SRL

To Top