- Guardant Health launches a new hereditary cancer test to identify genetic predispositions to over 12 types of cancer.
- The test analyzes 82 genes and helps guide tailored treatment decisions and risk assessments for secondary cancers.
- Results from the test are available in two to three weeks after a simple blood draw.
Guardant Health, Inc. (GH, Financial), a prominent player in precision oncology, has introduced the Guardant Hereditary Cancer test. This germline test is designed to identify genetic variants that increase cancer risk, thereby assisting oncology teams in providing optimal care for cancer patients. The test aligns with medical guidelines recommending genetic testing for those diagnosed with cancer, offering insights for genetically targeted treatments and identifying family members who might also benefit from personalized cancer screening and prevention.
The Guardant Hereditary Cancer test is a blood-based germline panel that analyzes inherited genetic variants typically present in all body cells. It identifies genetic variants across 82 genes, assessing risks for more than a dozen tumor types, including breast, colorectal, prostate, and renal cancers, among others.
Helmy Eltoukhy, co-CEO of Guardant Health, emphasized that the launch of this hereditary cancer test marks a crucial step in their mission to combat cancer through data-driven strategies. The test complements Guardant Health's existing portfolio, enabling healthcare providers to devise more personalized treatment plans and improve patient outcomes.
The test is accessible for patients with a personal or family history of hereditary cancer and can inform treatment decisions, assess risk for developing secondary cancers, and help identify other family members at elevated risk. The company recommends discussing risk-reducing strategies, enhanced screening, and considering referrals for genetic counseling as part of a comprehensive care approach.
One of the key benefits of the Guardant Hereditary Cancer test is its convenience; it requires just a single blood draw and can be conducted independently or added to Guardant360 liquid biopsy tests without additional samples. Results are typically ready within two to three weeks, facilitating timely interventions.
