Your genes can reveal if you're at higher risk for certain cancers, like breast, prostate, or colon cancer. For example, changes in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can raise the risk of breast and prostate cancer.

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Think of BRCA1 and BRCA2 as your body’s tiny repair crew. Normally, these genes fix broken or damaged DNA inside your cells. That’s important, because if damaged DNA isn’t fixed, it can lead to uncontrolled cell growth, which is what we call cancer, especially in areas like the breasts, ovaries, or prostate.

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Having a BRCA mutation doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get cancer, but it does mean your risk is much higher than average. That’s why genetic testing can be so powerful: when you know early, you can take action, like getting extra checkups or making smart health choices, to stay one step ahead.

Knowledge really is power… and peace of mind.​

When it comes to your health, sometimes one gene takes center stage, that’s called monogenic. For example, a BRCA1 mutation is like a star player that can greatly increase breast cancer risk all on its own.

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But more often, it’s a whole team of smaller gene changes working together behind the scenes. That’s polygenic, many tiny players adding up to influence your risk bit by bit. We measure this team effort with what’s called a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS).

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Think of it like a solo act versus a band, both can make a big impact, just in different ways!

Most genetic tests today look for rare, high-impact mutations in a single gene, like BRCA1 for breast cancer or HOXB13 for prostate cancer. These are important, but they only tell part of the story. In fact, only a small fraction of people at risk for cancer have one of these known mutations.

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That’s why we go further. Alongside monogenic testing, we also use Polygenic Risk Scores (PRS) to measure the combined effect of many small gene changes. Each of these may have a tiny impact, but together, they can significantly influence your risk.

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​We also incorporate relevant clinical information, such as family history, PSA levels, and other personal risk factors, to provide a more accurate and personalized risk profile.

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By combining both approaches, we uncover a more complete picture of your genetic risk, helping identify more people who may benefit from early screening, prevention, or lifestyle changes.

Our test checks rare changes in one single gene and many small changes across your DNA, called a Polygenic Risk Score (PRS). These can add up and raise your risk for certain cancers.

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Here’s how that helps:

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• If your PSA is elevated, and you and your doctor are not sure about getting a prostate biopsy or MRI: Our test result may help show whether your prostate cancer risk is high. That extra information may help you and your doctor decide if it’s time to take action or just keep an eye on things.

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• If you have a family history of breast cancer but your old genetic test was negative (or inconclusive): You might still have a higher risk. Our test result may find risks that single-gene tests miss, and help you and your doctor decide if you should start screening earlier.

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• Equally, for women who need a genetic test, our approach may provide a more complete picture by combining both monogenic and polygenic insights - offering a more comprehensive analysis of your genetic risk than traditional tests alone.

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This combined approach helps you and your doctor make more informed choices based on your full genetic picture.

Insurance coverage for Galatea’s genetic tests may be available, depending on your individual plan and medical necessity. Please contact us to learn more about coverage options and prior authorization support.

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Nova works with Galatea Bio, a certified clinical laboratory, to bring you comprehensive testing you can trust.