Color Collaborates with Pink Hope to Make Genetic Testing More Accessible

Color’s mission is to make genetic testing more accessible. To that end, we’re excited to collaborate with Pink Hope as they launch Australia’s most affordable genetic testing grant program for women at risk of developing breast and/or ovarian cancer in partnership with Barbells for Boobs.

Most cancers are sporadic; they occur by chance and are due to spontaneous mutations that accumulate over a person’s life. However, 10–15% of cancers in men and women are due to genetic mutations.

Genetic mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, are not common, but when present they significantly increase the chances of cancer.

For example, a BRCA1 mutation can increase a woman’s chance of breast cancer up to 81%. Individuals with mutations can create a personalized screening plan with their physician, which increases the likelihood of early detection.

Australia currently provides publicly funded genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 to those who are at high risk and meet certain criteria. Individuals who do not meet the criteria will need to pay anywhere between $800 — $2,000 (AUD) for genetic testing. The Pink Hope Genetic Testing Grant aims to help individuals who are:

1. At moderate to high risk of breast and ovarian cancer, particularly those that fall just outside the threshold for receiving free genetic testing through the public system; and
2. Who are experiencing financial hardship, making self funding a genetic test difficult

Starting November 30, Australians can apply for Pink Hope’s Genetic Testing Grant Program, alongside their healthcare professional. Thanks to generous funding from Barbells for Boobs, this program will cover 50% of the Color test, reducing the cost to just $200 (AUD). The Color test will be used to provide a comprehensive analysis of 30 genes (including BRCA1 and BRCA2) associated with an increased risk for the most common hereditary cancers, including breast, ovarian and prostate cancers.

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• Pink Hope is a preventative health organization working to ensure every individual can assess, manage and reduce their risk of breast and ovarian cancer, while providing personalized support for at risk women.
• Barbells for Boobs is a non-profit organization that believes everyone regardless of age, gender, income and insurance status has a RIGHT to know if they’re living with breast cancer.