Friday, December 20, 2013

Greater Competition Sparks the Market for Breast Cancer Genetic Testing

By Vera Viner
This blog has previously reported on the major news that the Supreme Court invalidated Myriad Genetic’s patents to breast cancer genes found in nature. According to the Business Journal, this has provided a new avenue for one company – LabCorp – to develop a similar product to compete in the market.

LabCorp has recently announced the availability of its BRCAssure tests, which can also be obtained through its specialty testing group. This test will determine whether a subject has a BRCA mutation and are at higher risk of ovarian or breast cancer. Finding out whether one has a genetic link for cancer can help them decide whether to undergo more rigorous and frequent cancer screenings or even a mastectomy.
In June 2013, the Supreme Court declared that Myriad Genetics does not have the right to hold patents on the breast cancer genes and most of the testing associated with these genes. LabCorp has also announced that as many as 145 genetic counselors will be available to help patients and doctors interpret the results of the genetic tests.
However, LabCorp is not the only one jumping into this particular market. There will be plenty of competition. Quest Diagnostics, Pathway Genomics, Ambry Genetics, and GeneDx have all gone forward with developing and launching their own version of the BRCA gene test.
This intense competition is sure to make patient advocates happier, as the cost of testing will likely fall over time. For instance, Quest’s version of the test is already $900 less than the cost of Myriad Genetics’. The diagnostics behind breast cancer risk is evolving as old legal standings fall and the market opens up for additional competition. Due to genetic testing, there also grows a greater movement toward preventing breast cancer before it starts. If breast cancer runs in your family, don’t delay and find out if you are at greater risk.

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