OncoNext Risk

Genetic changes play a role in the development of cancer; however, not all of them are inherited from a parent. Changes that arise in cells during a person's lifetime differ from inherited changes that can be passed down within a family. OncoNext® Risk investigates changes associated with inherited predisposition.

No. It is not used to detect an existing tumour or diagnose cancer. It investigates genetic changes that may predispose a person to certain cancers. It does not replace the assessment of symptoms, a medical examination, or any necessary imaging or biopsy procedures.

Genetic assessment may be particularly useful in the following situations:

• The same or related cancers occurring in several family members.

• A cancer diagnosis at a younger age than expected.

• More than one independent cancer or bilateral breast cancer in the same person.

• A genetic change associated with cancer predisposition has been identified in the family.

The need for testing is determined according to the cancer type and individual characteristics.

Not every family history of cancer requires genetic testing. It matters which relative had cancer, what type of cancer they had, and at what age it occurred. The history on both the mother's and father's sides is assessed together to decide whether testing is necessary.

Yes. It may be considered for healthy individuals, particularly if there is a family history or a known genetic change in the family. However, it is not a routine check-up test for everyone; assessing suitability before testing is important.

Yes. It may help assess whether the cancer is associated with an inherited predisposition and plan the necessary investigations for family members. Some findings may also contribute to treatment decisions; this assessment is made by an oncologist.

Panel options are available for breast, ovarian, colorectal, pancreatic, prostate, stomach and thyroid cancers, as well as melanoma. A BRCA1–BRCA2 panel and the more comprehensive OncoScreening Complete option are also available. Each panel covers a different set of genes.

No. Inherited cancer predisposition can affect both women and men. OncoNext® Risk options also include panels related to cancers such as prostate, colorectal and pancreatic cancer.

A blood sample is taken from the arm for DNA analysis. Fasting is generally not required for genetic testing. If other tests are to be performed on the same day, their preparation requirements must be followed.

No. Identifying a pathogenic or likely pathogenic change associated with cancer predisposition may indicate an increased risk of certain cancers. However, it does not mean that cancer will definitely develop or indicate when it might occur.

The finding is assessed as part of genetic counselling. Depending on the gene involved and personal history, screening that starts earlier or is performed more frequently, along with appropriate risk-reducing options, may be discussed. Testing may also be recommended for family members when necessary.

No. A negative result means that no disease-associated change was identified within the scope of the test. It does not rule out all hereditary causes or the possibility of developing cancer during your lifetime. Follow-up continues according to your personal and family history.

It means there is insufficient information to explain how an identified genetic change is related to disease risk. It is not the same as a positive result. It should not, on its own, be the basis for decisions such as preventive surgery; it may be reclassified over time.

No. Genetic assessment helps guide screening plans for suitable individuals. It does not replace mammography, colonoscopy or other check-ups recommended based on age, family history and other risk factors.

As part of Eurofins Genoma's genetic analysis services, OncoNext® Risk offers panels for specific cancer types as well as broader panel options. The ability to analyse multiple genes together using NGS supports assessment tailored to the clinical history. When choosing a test, not only the number of genes but also the scope of testing and specialist interpretation of the results are important.

For information about the test and to arrange testing, you can contact the Wellcare Laboratories branches at Wellcare Health Clinic and Miracle Hospital in Nicosia, and at Medicalport Tunççevik Hospital in Kyrenia. The appropriate panel and sample collection process are assessed before proceeding.