What Is the Cost of Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer?

You are interested in genetic testing for breast cancer but wondering about the cost. The good news is that the cost of genetic testing for breast cancer is likely not as much as you may think or have heard. Affordable options are available that are just as accurate and often more comprehensive than what has traditionally been offered through healthcare providers alone.

Background: Why Genetic Testing Costs Have Decreased

The cost of a genetic test for breast cancer varies depending on the lab performing the test. A few years ago, genetic testing for breast cancer was very expensive, sometimes up to $2,000. However, since the Supreme Court denied the patent for genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, the cost has decreased significantly. This decision allowed additional DNA testing companies to offer BRCA testing, and with more competition, prices came down.

Does Insurance Cover Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer?

In some cases, health insurance companies will cover genetic testing for breast cancer. Coverage depends on the health insurance company and the plan.

People of Ashkenazi Jewish descent have a higher risk of breast cancer compared to the general population and are often covered by insurance for BRCA testing. Those with a family history of breast cancer or family members with known genetic mutations are also at higher risk and may qualify for insurance coverage.

Cancer treatment is far more expensive than a DNA test, and preventative strategies for those with BRCA gene mutations are cost-effective by comparison. The only way to know if your health insurance will pay for genetic testing is to contact your insurer directly and request health plan information.

Is Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer Worth the Cost?

The cost of breast cancer treatment is substantial, often far exceeding the cost of any genetic test. Beyond medical expenses, cancer survivors frequently experience lost income and reduced productivity. The financial demands of oncology care can be significant for those without adequate insurance coverage.

By comparison, genetic testing for breast cancer risk is a small upfront investment that can lead to earlier detection, preventative action, and potentially avoiding the full costs of treatment entirely.

Preventing Breast Cancer

Preventing breast cancer is key to avoiding the high costs of treatment. Cancer screening with a genetic test can set the stage for breast cancer prevention. Those who know they carry BRCA1, BRCA2, or PALB2 mutations can work with their healthcare provider to implement preventative measures, including more frequent screenings, medication, or surgical options.

Early action is significantly more effective than reactive treatment, both medically and financially.

Considerations for Men

Many men do not take breast cancer seriously. While women are statistically more likely to develop it, men are also at risk. Men who have a family history of breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, or prostate cancer may be at higher risk of developing breast cancer as well. Genetic testing can reveal BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 mutations and shed light on other possible genetic predispositions.

Affordable Genetic Testing for Breast Cancer With Sequencing

Breast cancer genetic testing is available through Sequencing's whole genome sequencing service starting at $399. This at-home genetic testing service reads 100% of your DNA across over 30,000 genes, including BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, and all other genes associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer risk. The results are comprehensive and clinically meaningful.

The results you receive are based on the same underlying genomic data as clinical testing, at a fraction of the historical cost. Sequencing believes people should have access to their genetic information without unnecessary financial barriers.

Reach out to our support team with any questions, or learn more about whole genome sequencing from Sequencing. If you already have DNA data from another provider, you can also upload it for free and access breast cancer risk analysis through the Partner Marketplace.