Vancouver, B.C., Feb. 14, 2003 - The resumption of genetic testing at the BC Cancer Agency for hereditary breast and ovarian cancer is good news for families waiting for hereditary counselling and testing.

Health Services Minister Colin Hansen today authorized the resumption of genetic testing for the BRCA1 & 2 genes. In 2001, this testing was suspended in British Columbia when Myriad Genetics of the United States said it had rights to such testing under its patent. The Federal Patent Act allows holders of patents on genetic material to control all use of the gene in testing, research, and treatment. Prior to the suspension, about 600 of the tests had been performed at the BC Cancer Agency.

Although the Agency is once again able to perform the tests in-house, Dr. Doug Horsman, director of the Agency's Hereditary Cancer Program, asks for the understanding and patience of families seeking genetic counselling and testing.

"At the moment, we have a one year waiting list for counselling, and there are 300 families waiting for the testing," explains Dr. Horsman. "We have new equipment that will provide higher throughput at a lower cost, but we need to get through the backlog first."

Through the Hereditary Cancer Program at the BC Cancer Agency, about 125 families each year will receive valuable information about the BRCA 1 & 2 mutation, and be able to make decisions based upon this information. About five to 10 percent of breast and ovarian cancers have a hereditary component; about two percent are caused by the BRCA 1 & 2 mutation.

During the suspension, about 150 women in B.C. were given information by the BC Cancer Agency about a research study in Ontario, where they were offered the testing free of charge. Approximately 30 more chose to have the testing done by Myriad.

For more information, please contact:
Nicole Adams
Public Relations Officer
BC Cancer Agency
(604) 877-6272