MyRisk Genetic Testing Panel: What's Included?

05/08/2025

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Understanding your genetic profile can provide life-changing insights for individuals concerned about hereditary cancer risk. The MyRisk genetic testing panel offered by Myriad Genetics®, available via jscreen, provides comprehensive analysis that helps identify inherited cancer risks through advanced genetic screening. But what exactly does this panel include, and how does it empower you to take control of your health journey?

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Understanding the Scope of MyRisk Genetic Testing

The MyRisk hereditary cancer test examines multiple genes associated with increased risk for various types of cancer. This comprehensive panel evaluates over 40 genes genes linked to eleven different hereditary cancers: prostate, breast, ovarian, skin, gastric, colorectal, pancreatic, prostate, renal, lung, endocrine, melanoma, endometrial and other cancers.

Unlike single-gene tests of the past, this multi-gene panel approach provides a more complete picture of your hereditary cancer risk profile, allowing healthcare providers to develop more personalized prevention strategies. By analyzing multiple genes simultaneously, MyRisk can identify cancer-associated mutations that might be overlooked by smaller panels.

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The Science Behind the MyRisk Gene Panel

The genes in the MyRisk panel weren't selected randomly—they represent carefully curated genetic markers with established connections to hereditary cancer risk. Each gene on the panel has demonstrated a significant association with increased cancer susceptibility through extensive research and clinical evidence.

For example, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are well-known to substantially increase risks for breast, ovarian, and several other cancers. MyRisk examines these genes and dozens of others that may impact your cancer risk profile.

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High-Risk Genes on the Panel

The MyRisk panel includes several high-risk genes where mutations can significantly elevate cancer risk:

• HBOC: BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations can increase lifetime breast cancer risk to 45-85% (compared to about 12% in the general population) and ovarian cancer risk to 15-60% (versus 1-2% in the general population)
• Lynch Syndrome genes (MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2): Mutations in these genes can increase colorectal cancer risk to 10-80% and endometrial cancer risk to 15-60%
• APC: Mutations can create a nearly 100% lifetime risk for colorectal cancer if not monitored
• TP53: Associated with Li-Fraumeni syndrome, causing elevated risks for multiple cancer types at early ages

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Actionability: Turning Genetic Knowledge into Proactive Health Strategies

One of the most valuable aspects of the MyRisk genetic testing panel is the actionability of its results. When a mutation is identified, there are typically clear, evidence-based medical management options that can significantly reduce cancer risk or help detect cancers at earlier, more treatable stages.

Proactive Measures Based on Test Results

Depending on your MyRisk test results, your healthcare provider might recommend:

1. Enhanced surveillance: More frequent or specialized screening exams (like breast MRIs in addition to mammograms)
2. Risk-reducing medications: Certain medications may help reduce cancer risk for specific genetic mutations
3. Preventive surgeries: For some high-risk mutations, prophylactic surgeries like mastectomy, oophorectomy or colectomy may be considered
4. Lifestyle modifications: Nutrition, exercise, and other lifestyle factors can be important for those with certain genetic risks

For example, individuals with BRCA1/2 mutations typically begin breast cancer screening at younger ages, often incorporating breast MRI alongside mammography for improved early detection. Similarly, those with Lynch syndrome may start colonoscopy screening in their 20s rather than at age 45-50 as recommended for the general population.

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Beyond Single Mutations: MyRisk with RiskScore

For most patients, MyRisk test results include RiskScore, a more comprehensive assessment beyond identifying single mutations. RiskScore provides a personalized estimate of your five-year and remaining lifetime risk for developing breast cancer.

This score combines:

• Clinical risk factors
• Family history information
• Unique genetic markers associated with breast cancer risk across different ancestries

Studies indicate that RiskScore is twice as predictive of breast cancer risk compared to traditional risk models alone. This enhanced precision allows healthcare providers to develop personalized screening and prevention plans.

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Understanding Your MyRisk Test Results

MyRisk testing produces three possible result types:

1. Positive result: A genetic variant associated with higher cancer risk was identified, indicating an increased risk of developing specific types of cancer.
2. Negative result: No genetic variants associated with increased cancer risk were found in the tested genes. However, this doesn't eliminate all cancer risks—general population risk factors still apply, and family history may warrant additional and earlier screening.
3. Variant of Uncertain Significance (VUS): A genetic change was identified, but there isn't enough scientific evidence yet to determine whether it increases cancer risk. Most VUS results are eventually reclassified as benign with further research.

What sets MyRisk apart is its ongoing commitment to the accuracy of results. The test provider continuously reevaluates variants of uncertain significance and automatically sends updated reports if a variant is upgraded, ensuring you always have the current important information about your genetic risk.

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Who Should Consider MyRisk Genetic Testing?

While anyone can potentially benefit from understanding their hereditary cancer risk, MyRisk testing may be especially valuable for individuals with:

• Personal history of cancer, particularly at a young age
• Multiple family members with cancer, especially on the same side of the family
• Family history of rare cancers or numerous cancer types
• Known genetic mutations in family members
• Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry (which confers higher risk of specific mutations)

For those planning a family, hereditary cancer testing can also provide important information about genetic risks that could potentially be passed to children.

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Accessibility and Testing Process

The MyRisk genetic testing process is designed to be accessible and straightforward. Testing can be initiated through a healthcare provider or genetic counselor who can help determine if testing is appropriate based on your personal and family history.

‍The testing process with access through jscreen typically involves the following:

1. Sample collection: A simple saliva sample is collected
2. Laboratory analysis: Your sample is analyzed for mutations in the genes included in the panel
3. Results delivery: Results are typically available within 2-3 weeks
4. Post-test counseling: A healthcare provider or genetic counselor reviews your results and discusses appropriate next steps

Many insurance plans cover genetic testing for individuals with a qualifying personal or family history of cancer. For those without insurance coverage, various financial assistance programs may be available to help make testing more affordable.

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Making Informed Decisions About Genetic Testing

MyRisk genetic testing offers powerful insights, but the decision to undergo testing is personal. Here are important considerations:

• Testing can help identify hereditary cancer risk before cancer develops
• Results may impact medical management, potentially preventing cancer or detecting it earlier
• A positive result has implications for family members who may share the same mutation
• Insurance typically covers testing for those with qualifying family or personal history

For those concerned about hereditary cancer risk, consulting with a healthcare provider or genetic counselor can help determine if MyRisk genetic testing is appropriate and support understanding test results.

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Taking Control of Your Hereditary Cancer Risk

Knowledge is power when it comes to hereditary cancer risk. The comprehensive information provided by MyRisk empowers individuals to take proactive steps toward cancer prevention and early detection.

By understanding what genes are included in the panel, how they impact cancer risk, and what actions can be taken based on test results, you can make informed decisions about your health and potentially change the course of your life.

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The Evolving Science of Genetic Testing

It's important to note that the field of genetic testing is continuously evolving. As researchers identify new genes associated with cancer risk and better understand already known mutations, the predictive power and clinical utility of gene testing improve.

The MyRisk panel is regularly updated to incorporate these advances, ensuring the information reflects current scientific understanding. This commitment to scientific excellence means that the value of genetic testing increases over time.

Additionally, studies have shown that identifying hereditary cancer risk not only benefits the individual being tested but can also have profound impacts on family members who may share the same genetic variations. A single test can help multiple family members understand and manage their cancer risks more effectively.

Remember that hereditary factors are just one piece of the cancer risk puzzle. Even with genetic testing, working closely with healthcare providers to address all risk factors—including lifestyle, environmental exposures, and regular screenings—remains essential for comprehensive cancer prevention.

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References

1. National Comprehensive Cancer Network. (2023). Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Breast, Ovarian, and Pancreatic. NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology.

2. American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. (2021). Clinical utility of genetic and genomic services: a position statement of the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics. Genetics in Medicine.

3. National Cancer Institute. (2023). Genetic Testing for Inherited Cancer Susceptibility Syndromes. Available at: cancer.gov.

4. American Society of Clinical Oncology. (2023). Cancer.Net. Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk.

5. Myriad Genetics. (2023). MyRisk Hereditary Cancer Test with RiskScore. Professional information available at: myriad.com.