The following is my personal opinion/statements and does not reflect the opinions of any organizations I am affiliated with.
There are two known genetic mutations that causes an increase in breast and ovarian cancer, the BRCA1 and BRCA2. Myriad Genetics, a private company based in Utah, owns the human gene patents on the BRCA1 and BRCA2. The patent prevents other researchers or companies to look at these genes.
This is harmful for many reasons but I will list only two of them:
1. No competition in test price which is about $3100.
2. Other researchers and companies cannot test the many mutations along the BRCA genes. (Remember that I have a BRCA1 variant of uncertain significance and further testing cannot be done and are actually not being done to see how significant this variant really is. I was the third Asian that had this variant. I'm treating myself aggressively as if I have the mutation, hence the bilateral mastectomy. I finish up Tamoxifen in two years, when I'm 35. What then? Do I have an oopherectomy to remove my ovaries? That would be my option if I really am BRCA1 positive but am I truly BRCA1 positive?)
On May 12, 2009 genetic specialists, researchers and cancer survivors are represented by ACLU to challenge the patents on the BRCA genes. Should human genes be patent? What do you think? Knowledge is power, learn more.
To learn more www.aclu.org/brca
Liberate the Breast Cancer Genes video
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