Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk in Gdańsk – Cancer Screen

Cancer Screen is a genetic test using a saliva sample, available at Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre in Gdańsk. It looks for inherited genetic variants associated with an increased risk of selected cancers. It can help women and men plan appropriate preventive care. It does not confirm or rule out the presence of cancer in the body.

Genetic testing for cancer – what can it tell you?

The term “genetic testing for cancer” often refers to assessing inherited cancer risk. Cancer Screen looks for changes in DNA that may increase the likelihood of developing cancer. Finding such a variant does not mean that cancer will definitely develop, but it may influence recommendations for screening and preventive care.

Is cancer hereditary?

Approximately 5–10% of all cancers are associated with inherited genetic changes that increase cancer risk. It is the predisposition that is inherited, rather than the cancer itself. Cancer occurring in several family members does not always indicate a hereditary cancer syndrome: shared environmental factors and lifestyle may also play a role.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing – breast and ovarian cancer risk

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes involved in repairing damaged DNA. Certain variants increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, as well as other cancers, including pancreatic and prostate cancer. Testing can be relevant to both women and men.

Assessment of inherited risk does not have to be limited to BRCA1 and BRCA2. Depending on the clinical indications, a doctor may recommend a broader gene panel. Find out more on our hereditary breast and ovarian cancer page.

How does Cancer Screen work, and what is NGS?

A saliva sample is collected, and DNA is extracted from it in the laboratory. Next-generation sequencing, or NGS, is used to look for variants in the genes included in the selected panel.

The scope of analysis and the types of changes that can be detected depend on the test. NGS does not guarantee detection of every possible genetic abnormality.

When should you consider genetic testing for inherited cancer risk?

A consultation to discuss appropriate testing is particularly relevant if:

• a relative has a known pathogenic variant associated with an increased cancer risk,
• there have been several cases of cancer in the family, particularly breast, ovarian, colorectal or endometrial cancer,
• cancer was diagnosed at a young age, such as breast cancer before the age of 50,
• one person has had several separate primary cancers or cancer in both breasts,
• there has been a diagnosis of male breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer or certain forms of prostate cancer.

Testing may also be helpful for someone who is already receiving cancer treatment. Where possible, genetic testing in a family should start with a person who has had cancer. If a specific variant is already known in the family, a doctor may recommend testing specifically for that change.

Cancer Screen Basic, Standard and Plus – scope and prices

Before choosing a panel, check the current list of genes analysed and the scope of the particular test. A broader panel is not always the most appropriate choice: it should reflect the clinical indications and your family medical history.

If a pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant is detected, the test price includes a discussion of the result and an individual plan for further care.

How should you prepare for a Cancer Screen saliva test?

For at least 30 minutes before sample collection:

• do not eat or drink,
• do not smoke,
• do not chew gum,
• do not brush your teeth or use mouthwash.

The sample is collected using a dedicated kit, following its instructions. Bring any previous genetic test results and information about cancers in your family, including the type of cancer and the age at diagnosis.

Understanding your Cancer Screen result

• Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant: a change associated with an increased risk of certain cancers has been found. The result requires discussion and personalised recommendations; it is not a diagnosis of cancer.
• Negative result: no changes classified as disease-causing were found within the scope of the test. This does not rule out all inherited predispositions or the possibility of developing cancer in the future. Further preventive care also takes your family history into account.
• Variant of uncertain significance (VUS), if reported: there is not enough evidence to classify the change as disease-causing. This result alone is not a basis for preventive surgery.

How can identifying an inherited predisposition help?

The result may help determine whether screening should start earlier, which tests are appropriate and how often they should be performed. In selected cases, it may also guide other measures to reduce cancer risk. It can indicate a need for testing in relatives. For someone already diagnosed with cancer, the result may be relevant to treatment choices.

Further care depends on the specific gene, variant and individual medical circumstances. Genetic testing does not replace the investigation of symptoms or recommended cancer screening.

Where can you have Cancer Screen testing in Gdańsk?

Cancer Screen is available at Tartaczna 2 Medical Centre in Gdańsk. No appointment is required for sample collection. Current collection hours are listed on our genetic testing in Gdańsk page.

If you need help choosing a panel or would like to arrange an individual appointment, please contact reception on +48 58 719 10 25, email kontakt@tartaczna2.pl or visit our contact and appointments page.