MGRC, Clinipath announce affordable genetic screening test for breast, ovarian cancers

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad (MGRC) and subsidiary, Clinipath Sdn Bhd have announced the availability of Dtect BRCA+, an affordable genetic screening test that examines key genes associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancers.

According to a statement, positive results from Dtect BRCA+ may identify a need for regular, pathology surveillance to catch either of these diseases early when they are easiest to treat, and may also be useful to encourage positive lifestyle changes to mitigate the risk of hereditary breast cancer or ovarian cancer from occurring.

Early detection and treatment of breast cancer and ovarian cancer (at Stage 1) can led to a five-year relative survival rate of 87.5 per cent and 82.8 per cent, respectively, according to a Health Ministry study.

The study on cancer incidence and survival rates published by the ministry in 2018, which was observed at any age above 40, also found that the mortality rate for breast cancer was 43.3 per cent, while it was 52.9 per cent for ovarian cancer.

Symptoms for breast cancer may include swelling of all or part of a breast, skin irritation, thickening of the nipple or breast skin and abnormal nipple discharge while symptoms for ovarian cancer may include abdominal bloating, indigestion, increased urge to urinate, constipation and menstrual irregularities.

The public-listed healthcare company, MGRC and Clinipath continue to work together to make comprehensive pathology services, and the latest in genetic testing for doctors to improve the lives of patients in Malaysia and the region.

-- BERNAMA