Genetic Testing at Cancer Centre London

About genetic testing

Genetic testing is a type of medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes, genes, or proteins. The results of a genetic test can confirm or rule out a suspected genetic condition or help determine a person’s chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder.

Several genes which increase the risk of developing breast, ovarian or colorectal cancer have been identified and the complete sequences of these genes are known. The most well known genes, called BRCA1 and BRCA2, are involved in breast and ovarian cancer. A small number of rarer cancers are also known to be caused by inherited genetic factors.

Who should consider getting a test?

Patients with a strong family history of cancer who want to know whether they may have inherited faulty BRCA genes might want to look into a genetic test at CCL.

It's important to remember that even if you test positive it doesn’t mean that you are guaranteed to get cancer. Your genes make up just one part of the overall health equation and there are many other elements at play. Similarly, a negative test doesn’t rule out cancer – there are still health, environmental and lifestyle issues to consider.

What we can assure you of is that you’ll receive the same high-quality care at CCL for a genetic test as you would for any of our other services. This includes the plethora of support services such as counselling, group sessions and more. You can find the full range of our support services here. We’ll be with you every step of the way.

A comprehensive genetic testing service at CCL

At CCL we offer a robust testing and consultation procedure, which gives patients a clear picture of the risks, and the possible risk-reducing lifestyle changes you can make.

Testing for genes which increase cancer risk is a complex process, and we appreciate that many people may prefer not to know if they carry a genetic fault. An essential part of this process is the provision of accurate, up to date and understandable information delivered by an expert specialist to individuals wishing to consider testing.