What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you have a personal or family history of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, and want to understand your genetic risk factors. It identifies specific changes in DNA methylation patterns that can affect gene activity and may increase cancer susceptibility. Many people use this test when they want to take a proactive approach to cancer screening or when their doctor suspects hereditary cancer syndromes like Lynch syndrome.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your MLH1 methylation status means for your cancer risk and health monitoring. These notes include personalized recommendations about screening frequency, lifestyle modifications, and whether you should consult with a genetic counselor or oncologist. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your results over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful for ongoing cancer surveillance.

What's included in this test?

This test measures the methylation status of the MLH1 gene. This test analyzes the methylation status of the MLH1 gene, which plays a critical role in DNA repair and tumor suppression. When this gene becomes methylated, it can stop working properly, increasing the risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal cancer. The results help distinguish between hereditary and sporadic cancer risks, providing crucial information for personalized screening and prevention strategies.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is particularly important for individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer to determine if it's hereditary or sporadic. It's also valuable for people with a strong family history of colorectal or endometrial cancers, those with multiple polyps found during colonoscopy, or anyone whose doctor suspects Lynch syndrome. Early detection allows for more aggressive screening and prevention strategies.

What does MLH1 methylation mean and why does it matter?

MLH1 is a gene that helps repair mistakes in your DNA, acting as a tumor suppressor. When this gene becomes methylated, chemical changes prevent it from functioning properly, which can allow damaged cells to multiply unchecked and potentially develop into cancer. Understanding your MLH1 methylation status helps doctors determine if cancer risk is inherited or acquired, guiding appropriate screening and family counseling.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

This test is typically recommended if you've been diagnosed with colorectal cancer before age 50, have multiple relatives with colorectal or endometrial cancer, or have numerous colon polyps. Other signs include a personal history of both colorectal and endometrial cancer, or cancers that show specific microscopic features. Your doctor may also recommend it if routine tumor testing suggests Lynch syndrome.

What do abnormal results mean?

If MLH1 methylation is detected, it typically indicates that your cancer is sporadic rather than hereditary, which means it's less likely to be passed to family members. If no methylation is found in someone with cancer, further genetic testing may be needed to check for Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition. Your doctor will interpret these results in the context of your overall health picture and family history.

How can I reduce my cancer risk naturally?

While you can't change genetic factors, you can lower cancer risk through lifestyle choices. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed meats and red meat. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol all help reduce cancer risk. For those at higher risk, talk to your doctor about aspirin therapy and enhanced screening schedules.

How often should I get cancer screening if results are abnormal?

If your results suggest increased cancer risk, your doctor will likely recommend more frequent colonoscopies, typically every 1-2 years instead of the standard 10 years. Women may also need regular endometrial screening. The specific schedule depends on your individual risk factors, age, and family history. Your healthcare provider will create a personalized surveillance plan based on your results.

Should my family members be tested too?

If your results indicate sporadic cancer (MLH1 methylation present), your family members generally don't need this specific test. However, if results suggest hereditary cancer risk (no methylation found), your blood relatives may benefit from genetic counseling and testing for Lynch syndrome. Early identification in family members allows for preventive screening that can catch cancer early or prevent it entirely.

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.

MLH1 Methylation Test - Cancer Risk 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!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

DNA Methylation Test for Cancer Risk Assessment