Pathway Genomics, Susan G. Komen to educate women about breast cancer screening

Pathway Genomics and Susan G. Komen, the largest source of nonprofit funds dedicated to the fight against breast cancer, have announced a partnership to educate women about the screening options available to detect a predisposition to breast cancer. In addition to cash donations Pathway Genomics will provide genetic testing to women in need at no charge. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are a component of Pathway Genomics' comprehensive Hereditary Cancer DNA Insight^SM product, currently scheduled for release in August.

“Providing patients with proper education and affordable hereditary cancer screening is extremely important to Pathway Genomics and will help pave the way to saving thousands of lives each year”

Prior to the recent Supreme Court ruling that invalidated certain patent claims covering BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, testing for risk of breast and ovarian cancers has been unaffordable for many with tests costing as much as $7000. Pathway Genomics' test will be more accessible and affordable to patients who are at high risk for breast cancer.

More than 40,000 people in the U.S. die annually from breast cancer. "Providing patients with proper education and affordable hereditary cancer screening is extremely important to Pathway Genomics and will help pave the way to saving thousands of lives each year," said Jim Plante, Pathway Genomics' founder and CEO.

"We are grateful for Pathway Genomics' generous donation of free breast cancer testing and excited to see a San Diego-based organization making this type of testing available to those who need it most regardless of their monetary situation," said Laura Farmer Sherman, Executive Director of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, San Diego.

In addition to testing for breast cancer, Pathway Genomics' physician authorized testing services will screen over 30 genes linked to inherited cancers including ovarian, thyroid, renal, colorectal (Lynch Syndrome), and prostate. Providing physicians and patients with powerful information about cancer risks will help them to make educated decisions about preventative measures and treatment options.