What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're concerned about a family history of colorectal or breast cancer and want to understand your genetic risk. It looks for changes in the BLM gene that can raise the chance of developing these cancers. It's especially helpful if multiple relatives have had cancer at a young age or if you're of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, where BLM variants are more common.

What's included in this test?

This test combines two methods to give a complete picture of the BLM gene: sequencing, which reads the gene's code letter by letter to spot small changes, and deletion/duplication analysis, which checks for larger missing or extra pieces of the gene. Using both methods together catches variants that either test alone might miss, giving you the most thorough result possible.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear securely in your account, with a clear explanation of what a positive or negative finding means. If a pathogenic variant is found, next steps typically include more frequent cancer screenings and sharing the result with blood relatives who may also be at risk. You can download a standard lab report directly from your account at any time, and since this is a one-time genetic result, tracking over time isn't needed the way it is for other blood values.

How can I naturally support my cancer risk awareness?

While you can't change your genes, you can lower overall cancer risk through healthy habits like eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, limiting processed meats, staying physically active, and avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol. Regular screenings like colonoscopies and mammograms starting at the recommended age are one of the most effective tools for catching issues early. Keeping a detailed family health history and updating it over time also helps guide screening decisions.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after your sample is processed at the lab. You'll get a notification when your results are posted to your secure online account. Genetic tests like this one can take a bit longer than routine blood work because of the detailed analysis involved.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with a personal or family history of colorectal or breast cancer, especially if it occurred at an early age or in multiple relatives. It's also worth considering if you have Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, since BLM variants are more frequently found in this population. Anyone building a fuller picture of their inherited cancer risk may benefit from this information.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

BLM variants themselves don't cause symptoms directly, so this test is more about family history than current symptoms. Signs that testing might be worthwhile include multiple family members diagnosed with colorectal or breast cancer, cancer diagnosed before age 50, or a known BLM variant elsewhere in your family. If you've noticed a pattern of cancer in your family tree, this test can help clarify your own risk.

What is the BLM gene and why does it matter?

The BLM gene helps your cells repair damaged DNA correctly, acting like a quality-control checkpoint. When this gene doesn't work properly, DNA errors can build up over time, which raises the risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer and, in people assigned female at birth, breast cancer. Understanding whether you carry a BLM variant helps you and your family make informed decisions about screening and prevention.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means a pathogenic variant was found in your BLM gene, which means your lifetime risk of colorectal cancer, and possibly breast cancer, is higher than average. This doesn't mean you will definitely develop cancer, but it's a strong signal to talk about earlier or more frequent screening. It also means close blood relatives may want to consider testing themselves.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If a variant is found, the most important next step is starting earlier or more frequent cancer screening, such as colonoscopies starting at a younger age. Share your result with close biological relatives, since they may carry the same variant and benefit from testing too. If you experience any warning signs like unexplained bleeding, persistent digestive changes, or a new lump, seek medical care promptly rather than waiting for a routine screening.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

BLM Gene Test - Colorectal & Breast Cancer Risk

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]