Who should consider cancer risk testing?
Cancer risk testing is designed for individuals who want to understand their genetic predisposition to common cancers such as breast, colorectal, prostate and melanoma. Rather than focusing on rare single-gene mutations, these tests use polygenic risk scoring (PRS) to assess how multiple genetic variants combine to influence overall risk.
It is particularly relevant for people who want a more personalised view of their risk beyond general population averages. This includes those with a family history of cancer, but also individuals without a clear inherited pattern who still want to take a proactive approach to their health.
Understanding your genetic risk can help inform decisions around screening, lifestyle and long-term health planning. It may also be useful for those thinking ahead about prevention or wanting a clearer baseline to track alongside other health data.
Cancer risk testing is not diagnostic. A higher risk score does not mean you will develop cancer, but it can help guide earlier or more appropriate screening and preventative strategies when discussed with a healthcare professional.
Why test from home?
Home cancer risk testing uses a simple saliva sample to analyse your DNA, making it easy to access advanced genetic insights without visiting a clinic. The process is non-invasive, private and can be completed at a time that suits you.
PRS-based testing evaluates a large number of genetic variants across your genome, providing a more nuanced view of risk compared to single-gene testing. Instead of a binary result, you receive a relative risk score that places you within a spectrum compared to the wider population.
Testing from home makes it easier to take a proactive approach to your health. Your results can support discussions with your GP or specialist around screening frequency, lifestyle changes or preventative planning, particularly where earlier intervention may be beneficial.
How it works
You order a cancer risk test and receive a saliva collection kit with clear instructions. After providing your sample, you return it to the laboratory using prepaid packaging.
The laboratory analyses your DNA using polygenic risk scoring, assessing multiple genetic variants associated with the cancers included in your test. These are combined into a single risk score for each cancer, showing whether your genetic risk is lower, average or higher compared to the general population.
Your results are delivered in a secure report, explaining your relative risk and what it means in context. This information can then be used to guide discussions with your GP or specialist about screening, monitoring and longer-term health planning.
