Genetic Breast & Ovarian Cancer Risk Test

We also offer a Genetic Breast & Ovarian Cancer Risk Test. This is a non-invasive saliva or blood test that screens and detects genetic variants in 8 genes which may increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, including BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, ATM, and CHEK2.

Results are typically available within 6 weeks. The results provide valuable information to help guide cancer risk management, inform screening recommendations, and support onward referral where appropriate.

Breast Ultrasound & GP Assessment Service

Our breast ultrasound service is for people experiencing a breast lump you can feel or focal breast pain/discomfort. Ultrasound provides a detailed view of the breast tissue and can help identify findings such as cysts, benign lumps, nodularity, asymmetry, and changes within the axilla (armpit).

Important Information

Ultrasound is a very effective imaging tool, however it cannot diagnose breast cancer on its own. A breast cancer diagnosis requires a triple assessment, which includes:

• Clinical examination
• Imaging (ultrasound and/or mammogram)
• Biopsy

Please note: biopsies are not available as part of this service.

GP Assessment Included

Your appointment includes a GP consultation before your scan. The GP will examine you and discuss your symptoms to confirm whether ultrasound is the most appropriate next step. If ultrasound is not suitable, you will be advised accordingly.

Following the scan, the sonographer will provide a preliminary report to the GP. The GP will then review the findings with you and, if required, arrange onward care and provide NHS or private referrals for further investigation such as mammogram and/or biopsy.

Genetic Breast & Ovarian Cancer Risk Test

We also offer a Genetic Breast & Ovarian Cancer Risk Test. This is a non-invasive saliva or blood test that screens and detects genetic variants in 8 genes which may increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, including BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, ATM, and CHEK2.

Results are typically available within 6 weeks. The results provide valuable information to help guide cancer risk management, inform screening recommendations, and support onward referral where appropriate.

Appointment Structure

Your visit takes just over one hour and includes:

Stage 1 – GP assessment
Stage 2 – 30-minute ultrasound scan (and blood test if required)
Stage 3 – GP review and onward care plan (if required)

During the scan, the breast tissue is assessed in detail, including the skin layers and axillary region. Findings are explained and discussed with you during the ultrasound.

Over 40s and Breast Imaging

Breast ultrasound may be appropriate and can still be useful over the age of 40, particularly for assessing a specific lump or localised area of concern. However, many people in this age group may also need a mammogram as part of their overall assessment. This service can still be carried out, but it should be understood that ultrasound alone provides imaging information and does not replace full diagnostic breast assessment where this is required.

Under 40s and Breast Imaging

This service may be appropriate if you are under 40 (or over) and have any of the following:

• Breast cysts (including previously drained cysts)
• A defined lump with pain
• A mobile lump (moves within the breast tissue)
• Nodularity or asymmetry
• Focal pain or discomfort
• Clear nipple discharge
• Skin lesions on the breast or in the armpit

If you have been told you are at higher risk of breast cancer, we recommend seeing our GP before booking to ensure the correct pathway is followed.

Reports & Results

A preliminary report will be sent to the GP immediately after your scan. Your full report and images will be available within 48 hours and uploaded to our secure portal. Printed copies can also be posted to you for £5. Should you wish for your own GP to be informed of our findings and report, please inform our GP at the time of your appointment.

This service is limited to Wednesday’s in Ballymena only.

Refund policy

This service is not refundable. Your payment acts as a non refundable booking fee. Unfortunately if you see the NHS first and no longer require this service, you can utilise the two 15 minute GP app’s for different uses and the scan can cover a different area of your body. This isn’t transferrable to other clients.