Breast/Prostate Sensor

Interested in whether you are genetically more susceptible than average to breast or prostate cancer? Breast/Prostate Sensor is an oral-swab genetic test analysing genetic variants associated with the risk of these diseases. It shows susceptibility, does not establish a diagnosis and cannot prevent cancer.

Who is this test for

• adult women who want to know more about their genetic susceptibility to breast cancer alongside regular examinations;
• adult men interested in genetic susceptibility to prostate cancer;
• people seeking additional motivation for lifestyle changes that generally reduce risk;
• people interested in how genetic variations may affect the action of certain medicines, which is also included according to the test description.

If several family members have had breast, ovarian, prostate or pancreatic cancer, someone developed it young, or a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene change has already been found in the family, talk to a doctor first. Guidelines then emphasise comprehensive testing of high-risk genes with genetic counselling; a susceptibility test is not a replacement. Read more in the article Genetic assessment of breast cancer development.

What the test reveals

As its name suggests, the test concerns susceptibility to breast or prostate cancer. According to its description, it covers selected genetic variants that may increase or reduce cancer risk. The report includes a susceptibility assessment, lifestyle recommendations and a pharmacogenetic component explaining how inherited factors may affect the action and tolerability of certain medicines.

Unlike rare changes in high-risk genes, most common genetic variations change risk only slightly, and most breast and prostate cancers are not inherited. A susceptibility test therefore does not replace mammography, a doctor’s examination or PSA when recommended by a doctor. Ask for the exact list of genes and variants covered before testing. For a broader analysis of genes associated with inherited cancers, there is also Cancer Screen, but check with your doctor which test matches your family history.

The test and preparation

The sample is an oral swab: a swab is passed over the inside of the cheek several times. The procedure is painless and takes a minute or two; blood collection is not required. For 30 minutes before the swab, do not eat, drink anything except water, smoke or chew gum.

What your results mean

A doctor interprets the result alongside your family history, age and other risk factors.

• Average or reduced genetic susceptibility does not mean you cannot develop disease. Age-appropriate examinations and invitations from national early-detection programmes remain equally important.
• Increased genetic susceptibility does not mean you will develop disease. A doctor assesses whether earlier or more frequent examinations are needed, also considering family history.
• A change in a high-risk gene, if reported, requires genetic counselling; a doctor assesses the need for confirmatory or broader testing and more frequent examinations.
• Pharmacogenetic information is supplementary. A doctor selects the medicine and dose, so do not change treatment yourself.

Show a doctor any breast or armpit lump, nipple discharge, breast skin change, difficulty urinating or blood in urine, regardless of genetic results. Signs to look out for are described in the article Early symptoms of breast cancer.

How to arrange testing

The test is performed without a referral or appointment: a nurse takes the swab at any of our branches (listed on the Contact). Free genetic counselling is also available with genetic tests. Prices for all tests and panels are listed in the price list.

Frequently asked questions

Can a genetic test prevent cancer?

No. The test assesses susceptibility; healthy habits such as not smoking, physical activity and moderation with alcohol, and regular examinations detecting disease in time, reduce risk.

If results are normal, do I still need mammography?

Yes. Most women who develop disease do not have an inherited gene change, so normal results do not mean you cannot develop it. Continue following mammography invitations and medical recommendations.

Is this the same as BRCA gene testing?

No. Susceptibility testing does not replace high-risk gene testing. With a strong family history, guidelines recommend comprehensive testing examining the entire sequence of BRCA1, BRCA2 and other high-risk genes. Susceptibility tests often analyse only selected variants.

Do I need a referral or doctor’s recommendation?

A referral is not required. However, discussing family history with a doctor before testing is worthwhile because it determines which test really suits you.