KENILWORTH, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--RDx BioScience (RDx) calls for increased use of genetic testing to identify mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2, the genes discovered in the 1990s to be strongly associated with a high risk of breast cancer. RDX, a single source for care quality, risk evaluation and opioid expertise powered by a fast, full-service laboratory, raises awareness that these gene mutations are heritable, can be passed from parent to child, and 70 percent of women with mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 will develop breast cancer before the age of 80.
“A woman’s lifetime risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer is greatly increased if she inherits a harmful mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2,” says Scott Howell, D.O., MPH &TM, CPE, chief medical officer, RDx. “Genetic risk testing for a true negative result brings a personal sense of relief, while a positive test result may resolve uncertainties, allowing people to make informed decisions about their future healthcare and take steps to reduce cancer risk.”
Only about 5-10 percent of breast cancer is considered to be genetically heritable, meaning 90-95 percent of women who develop breast cancer do not have an inherited mutation and may develop cancer for other reasons: environmental toxin exposure, lifestyle choices and other disease risks.
“Discovering that you have a genetic mutation means you can help prevent breast cancer or find it early, when the chances for successful treatment are highest,” says Dr. Howell. “Moreover, genetic testing doesn’t just affect the individual, since test results also could predict a family member’s cancer risks. Men and women alike should take the time to discuss these options with a physician and be ready to do something about it.”
RDx testing can determine inherited gene mutations that influence breast cancer, including BRCA1 and BRCA2, as well as TP53, PTEN, STK11, CDH1, PALB2, CHEK2, ATM, NBN, BARD1 and BRIP1. Additional RDx hereditary risk testing targets ovarian, uterine, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers.
About RDx
RDx is a full-service, high-technology laboratory. We are fast, accurate, and deliver value-based service nationally. RDx is accredited by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) as a certified, full-service medical laboratory. Visit www.RDxBioscience.com
