Ordering the Breast Cancer Prevention Test | Europe
The Breast Cancer Prevention Test from Genova Diagnostics Diagnostics measures specific estrogen byproducts in urine to help identify patterns linked to breast and prostate cancer risk. This test provides a detailed look at how your body processes estrogen, which can be influenced by factors like age, hormone therapy, and family history. Interestingly, research shows that the 2/16 OH ratio can shift with changes in diet and exercise, making it a useful marker for tracking risk over time.
Ordering this test offers several specific benefits:
- Measures both “good” and “bad” estrogen byproducts for a clearer risk profile.
- Helps track the impact of lifestyle changes or treatments on estrogen metabolism.
- Supports early detection of hormone imbalances that may increase cancer risk.
- Provides actionable data for both men and women, including those with prostate concerns.
- Enables monitoring of hormone changes during menopause or after starting new medications.
Who Should Consider Hormone Metabolism Screening
People who have a family history of breast or prostate cancer, or who are experiencing unexplained changes in breast tissue, may benefit from this test. For example, someone who recently noticed a new lump during a self-exam and wants to understand if hormone balance could be a factor may find this test helpful.
Ordering may also be appropriate in these situations:
- Recent start or change in hormone replacement therapy.
- History of dense breast tissue on mammogram results.
- Unexplained breast pain or swelling not linked to injury.
- Men with prostate concerns or a family history of prostate cancer.
- Unexpected nipple discharge in the absence of pregnancy or breastfeeding.
This test is recommended for those who want to measure how their body breaks down estrogen, which can help guide decisions about diet, exercise, and medical treatments. Delaying this test may mean missing early changes in estrogen metabolism that could be addressed before they become more significant.
How to Prepare for Estrogen Byproduct Analysis
Fasting is not required for this test, but you will need to collect a 24-hour urine sample as instructed. Always follow the directions provided by your doctor or healthcare professional to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Breast Cancer Prevention Test
| Test Name | Reference Range | Significance | Low and High Levels of Breast Cancer Prevention Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2-Hydroxyestrone | 4.0 – 12.0 | 2-Hydroxyestrone is a “good” estrogen byproduct that helps protect cells from DNA damage. Higher levels are linked to a lower risk of hormone-related cancers. |
High levels mean your body is making more protective estrogen byproducts.
Low levels mean less protective estrogen is present, which may increase risk. |
| 16 Alpha-Hydroxyestrone | 2.0 – 8.0 | 16 Alpha-Hydroxyestrone is a “bad” estrogen byproduct that can promote cell growth and is linked to higher cancer risk when elevated. |
High levels mean there is more of the estrogen byproduct associated with increased cancer risk.
Low levels mean less of this risk-related byproduct is present. |
| 2/16 OH Ratio | >1.5 | This ratio compares “good” to “bad” estrogen byproducts. A higher ratio is linked to lower risk for breast and prostate cancer. |
High levels mean a healthier balance of estrogen byproducts.
Low levels mean a higher proportion of risk-related estrogen byproducts. |
| 4-Hydroxyestrone | 0.5 – 2.5 | 4-Hydroxyestrone is another estrogen byproduct that can damage DNA if not properly cleared. It is linked to both breast and prostate cancer risk. |
High levels mean increased potential for DNA damage.
Low levels mean less risk from this specific byproduct. |
| 2-Methoxyestrone | 1.0 – 4.0 | 2-Methoxyestrone is a protective metabolite formed from 2-hydroxyestrone. It helps neutralize harmful estrogen byproducts. |
High levels mean your body is effectively neutralizing harmful byproducts.
Low levels mean less protection from harmful estrogen metabolites. |
| 4-Methoxyestrone | 0.2 – 1.0 | 4-Methoxyestrone is formed from 4-hydroxyestrone and helps reduce the risk of DNA damage by making this byproduct less harmful. |
High levels mean your body is neutralizing more potentially harmful byproducts.
Low levels mean less conversion of harmful byproducts to safer forms. |
| 2-Methoxyestrone/2-Hydroxyestrone Ratio | 0.2 – 0.6 | This ratio shows how well your body converts protective estrogen byproducts into even safer forms. A higher ratio means better detoxification. |
High levels mean strong conversion to protective forms.
Low levels mean less conversion, which may increase risk. |
| 4-Methoxyestrone/4-Hydroxyestrone Ratio | 0.1 – 0.4 | This ratio measures how well your body neutralizes potentially harmful 4-hydroxyestrone. Higher values are linked to lower risk of DNA damage. |
High levels mean more effective neutralization of harmful byproducts.
Low levels mean less neutralization, which may increase risk. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their methods and guidelines.
Breast Cancer Prevention Test FAQ
Is there Breast Cancer Prevention Test testing near me?
This is a home test kit, so you can collect your 24-hour urine sample at home and send it to the lab using the included prepaid shipping label. For those monitoring hormone changes or at risk for breast or prostate cancer, being able to collect your sample locally makes it easier to test at the right time and avoid delays.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand your report and next steps.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed for this test includes standard shipping to your address and return shipping to the lab, but local draw fees may apply. Ordering this test can help you identify hormone imbalances early, which may speed up finding the right treatment plan.
How often should I retest?
Retesting is usually recommended every 6 to 12 months, especially if you are making changes to your diet, hormone therapy, or other treatments. Regular testing helps track how your estrogen metabolism responds to these changes and supports ongoing risk reduction.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses advanced liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) for precise measurement of estrogen byproducts, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
If you are in the USA and would like a comparable test, see our Estronex test.
READ: These tests are available for European countries only.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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