BRCA · Lynch Syndrome · Hereditary Cancers
Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer driven by BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations is significantly underdiagnosed in India. Certain communities — Punjabi, Bengali, Sindhi, and South Indian — carry founder mutations that are not captured in Western databases.
Lynch Syndrome, which predisposes to colorectal, endometrial, and ovarian cancers, is responsible for up to 3–5% of all colorectal cancers. Most families carrying Lynch mutations in India remain unaware.
| Gene / Panel | Cancer Risk Covered | Recommended For |
|---|---|---|
| BRCA1 / BRCA2 | Breast, Ovarian, Pancreatic, Prostate | First-line for all women with family history |
| MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2 (Lynch Panel) | Colorectal, Endometrial, Ovarian, Gastric | Colorectal family clustering; early-onset CRC |
| PALB2, CHEK2, ATM | Breast, Pancreatic (moderate–high risk) | BRCA-negative with strong family history |
| Hereditary Cancer Panel (25+ genes) | Comprehensive multi-cancer risk assessment | Complex family history; multiple cancer types |
| Cascade Testing (known variant) | Single variant confirmation in relatives | Family members of a known positive carrier |
| Test | Approx. Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| BRCA1 / BRCA2 (2-gene panel) | ₹ 8,000 – 12,000 | Most common first-line test |
| Lynch Syndrome Panel (4 genes) | ₹ 12,000 – 18,000 | For colorectal/endometrial family history |
| Hereditary Cancer Panel (25+ genes) | ₹ 22,000 – 35,000 | Broad multi-cancer coverage |
| Cascade Testing (family member) | ₹ 3,500 – 6,000 | Single known variant; discounted rate |
| Genetic Counselling (per session) | ₹ 500 – 1,500 | Pre- and post-test consultation |