Sarah Cannon Molecular Diagnostics
Ground Floor, Shropshire House 1 Capper Street WC1E 6JA London
General and Hereditary Cancer Private Genetic Testing
We offer genetic testing at a number of clinics throughout the HCA Healthcare UK network. The laboratory testing for genetics is undertaken by Sarah Cannon Molecular Diagnostics, part of HCA Healthcare UK. When booking your appointment we can advise on the service which is available closest to you.
At HCA Healthcare UK, we use the latest research and innovative genetic testing to help determine the most effective course of treatment.
Our ground-breaking work in genetic analysis helps our consultants to determine the course of treatment that may be most effective for each individual patient. It also gives information that may be useful in identifying potential 'off-label treatments' (medicines used in a manner not specified on the label) or clinical trials. Our genetic testing services can be accessed through our HCA UK services in London and Manchester.
World-class genetic testing
Sarah Cannon Molecular Diagnostics
Our pioneering laboratory helps cancer patients to get the treatment that's right for them based on genetic analysis. Sarah Cannon has been a clinical trial leader in advancing cancer therapies for over 10 years.
Preimplantation genetic screening
At the The Lister Fertility Clinic, we can screen embryos for abnormalities in chromosomes before transfer.
Advancing genetic profiling
Our new genetic profiling laboratory is the result of a collaboration between two internationally recognised facilities:
Sarah Cannon Molecular Diagnostics
UCL Advanced Diagnostics, part of the UCL Cancer Institute.
What is hereditary cancer?
Cancer is a common condition with approximately one in two people developing it in in their lifetime. It develops when something has gone wrong (a mutation) with one or more of the genes in a cell. Most gene changes happen during our lifetime, but sometimes these can be inherited from a parent, these are called inherited cancer genes.
If a parent has a gene mutation then each child has a 1 in 2 chance (50%) of inheriting it. Some children will have the faulty gene and an increased risk of developing cancer and some children won’t. So, being born with one inherited faulty gene doesn’t mean that a person will definitely develop cancer, but they do have a higher risk of developing particular types of cancer (breast, ovarian, colorectal and prostate cancer) than other people and may also develop cancer at a younger age (genetic predisposition to cancer).
What is genetic testing for cancer?
A cancer genetics test is a DNA test to discover whether you are carrying a genetic mutation that could cause cancer. We offer the latest, validated, hereditary cancer gene panel tests which are not routinely available elsewhere. This multi-gene technology enables us to simultaneously examine dozens of genes at once, instead of looking at the inheritance of one potentially cancer-causing mutation at a time.
Possible results following your cancer genetics test
Our consultant geneticists identify the tests that are appropriate for each individual, taking into consideration family history. They can advise what the tests results will show, and inform you about available treatments and the long-term outcomes for patients diagnosed with a genetic disorder.
A mutation is found in a gene known to increase the risk of cancer. Increased screening and risk-reducing techniques will be recommended based on your family history.
A genetic variation is found, but whether or not this is the definite cause of cancer is unknown. Screening will be recommended based on your medical history and family history.
No mutation is found. It is possible that there may be an undetectable mutation or a mutation in a gene not tested.
How do I decide whether to have a genetic test for cancer?
In some families, there are specific patterns which may indicate an inherited cancer risk.
These could be:
- diagnosis of cancer at a young age
- a member of your family having two of more types of cancer
- several close family members being diagnosed with the same or related cancers
- consecutive generations of a family being affected by cancer
If you can identify with any of the above factors and are concerned about your risk of developing cancer, book to see one of our consultant geneticists.
During your consultation, the consultant geneticist will review your and your family’s medical history to assess your cancer risk and may advise cancer genetic testing for you and your family.
How much will specialist medical advise and testing cost?
An initial appointment with one of our expert consultant geneticists is £350 for 45 mins. A deposit of £100 will be taken at the time of booking to secure the appointment.
The cost of any recommended testing will be fully discussed and consented before proceeding.
Our locations
Where is our genetic testing for cancer available?
We offer genetic testing at a number of clinics throughout the HCA Healthcare UK network. The laboratory testing for genetics is undertaken by Sarah Cannon Molecular Diagnostics, part of HCA Healthcare UK. When booking your appointment we can advise on the service which is available closest to you.
The Shard Outpatients
The Shard 32 St Thomas Street SE1 9BS London
The Wellington Hospital Outpatients
15 - 17 Lodge Road NW8 7JA London
Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 King's Road SW3 5AW London
Devonshire Diagnostic Centre
13-19 Devonshire Street Marylebone W1G 7AF London
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street SE1 2PR London
The Christie Private Care
Wilmslow Road M20 4BX Manchester
The Wilmslow Hospital
52-54 Alderley Road Wilmslow SK9 1NY Cheshire
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street W1G 8BJ London
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.