BRCA testing in India costs between ₹3,000 and ₹25,000 depending on the type of test — from a targeted mutation analysis to a comprehensive hereditary cancer panel. This guide explains who should get tested, which test is right for you, and how to interpret your results with a genetic counselor.
What Are BRCA1 and BRCA2?
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tumour-suppressor genes whose normal function is to repair damaged DNA and prevent cells from growing uncontrollably. When a person carries a pathogenic mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2, this repair mechanism is impaired — significantly increasing the risk of breast, ovarian, and several other cancers.
Mutations in these genes are hereditary, meaning they are passed down through families. Each child of a BRCA mutation carrier has a 50% chance of inheriting the mutation. BRCA mutations are the most common cause of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) syndrome.
| Cancer Type | BRCA1 Lifetime Risk | BRCA2 Lifetime Risk | General Population Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breast cancer (female) | 50–72% | 40–69% | ~12% |
| Ovarian cancer | 44–46% | 17–23% | ~1.3% |
| Breast cancer (male) | ~1–2% | ~6–8% | ~0.1% |
| Pancreatic cancer | Slightly elevated | ~3–5% | ~1.6% |
BRCA Testing Costs in India
| Test Type | What It Tests | Cost Range (INR) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Targeted BRCA mutation test | Specific known mutation in family | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | Family members of a known BRCA carrier |
| Full BRCA1/BRCA2 sequencing | All mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 | ₹8,000 – ₹15,000 | No known family mutation; strong personal/family history |
| Hereditary cancer panel | BRCA1, BRCA2 + 20–80 other cancer genes | ₹18,000 – ₹25,000 | Multiple cancer types in family; comprehensive risk assessment |
| Government / subsidized | Varies | ₹2,000 – ₹6,000 | AIIMS, regional cancer centres, Ayushman Bharat empanelled labs |
Cost tip: If a specific BRCA mutation has already been identified in a close relative, your test is a simple targeted analysis — costing ₹3,000–₹5,000 rather than ₹8,000–₹15,000 for full sequencing. Always confirm whether a family mutation is already known before ordering.
Who Should Get BRCA Testing?
- Personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before age 50
- Personal history of triple-negative breast cancer at any age
- Personal history of ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer
- Male breast cancer
- Two or more close relatives (mother, sister, daughter, father, brother) with breast or ovarian cancer
- A relative with bilateral breast cancer or both breast and ovarian cancer
- Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry with any breast or ovarian cancer in the family
- A known BRCA mutation in a close blood relative
Which BRCA Test Should You Choose?
Option 1: Targeted Single-Mutation Test
If a specific BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation has already been identified in your family, only that mutation needs to be tested. This is the most cost-effective approach (₹3,000–₹5,000) and gives a clear positive or negative result.
Option 2: Full BRCA1/BRCA2 Sequencing
If no family mutation is known but personal or family history is significant, full sequencing of both genes is recommended (₹8,000–₹15,000). This detects all types of mutations across the entire BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
Option 3: Hereditary Cancer Panel
If family history includes multiple cancer types or if full BRCA sequencing returns negative with a strong clinical picture, a multi-gene panel (₹18,000–₹25,000) tests BRCA1, BRCA2, plus PALB2, ATM, CHEK2, CDH1, PTEN, STK11, RAD51C, RAD51D, and other relevant genes simultaneously.
After Your BRCA Test: What Happens Next
Personalised surveillance plan (MRI + mammogram annually), discussion of risk-reduction surgery (mastectomy, salpingo-oophorectomy), and cascade family testing.
Does not eliminate all hereditary risk. If family history remains strong, a broader panel may be recommended. Standard population screening applies.
A DNA change found but not enough evidence to classify. Family testing may help reclassify. Periodic re-evaluation as more data emerges.
Once your mutation is known, each first-degree relative can be tested with a targeted test (₹3,000–₹5,000) for the same mutation.
How to Get BRCA Testing in India
- Consult a genetic counselor — they review your personal and family history to determine the right test and lab, and explain what results will mean for you and your family before you test.
- Order the test — the genetic counselor provides a test requisition form; a blood sample (~5 ml) is collected at a nearby collection centre or at home.
- Receive the report — typically 2–4 weeks; full sequencing or panels may take 4–6 weeks.
- Post-test counseling — a genetic counselor interprets the report, explains risk numbers, and coordinates next steps (surveillance, family testing, referrals).
Book a BRCA Genetic Counseling Session
Lakshita Thakore is a BGCI Certified Genetic Counselor. She will review your family history, recommend the right test, and guide you through your results.
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