A new study from Queen Mary University of London suggests that offering genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations to all women over 30 in the UK could prevent more cancers and save lives. These mutations, famously linked to actress Angelina Jolie's preventive surgeries, currently trigger testing only in women with a family history of cancer.
The research, published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, modelled the impact of screening all 27 million women over 30. It found that mass testing would be cost-effective for the NHS and could lead to earlier detection, closer monitoring, and preventive surgeries, reducing ovarian and breast cancer incidence.
Women with BRCA mutations face a 10% to 60% lifetime risk of ovarian cancer, compared with the average 2%, and up to a 60% risk of breast cancer versus the average 12.5%. Dr Ranjit Manchanda, a consultant gynaecological oncologist and co-author, called the findings a first step, noting that implementation challenges remain, including delivering genetic counselling to millions.
Charities including The Eve Appeal and Breast Cancer Care welcomed the study's promise but stressed the need for robust support systems. Samia al Qadhi, chief executive of Breast Cancer Care, said that testing is emotionally draining and that decisions following results must be backed by adequate care. The UK National Screening Committee said it would review the findings with interest.
