Color

Color Genomics provides a physician-ordered test for hereditary cancer risk.The Color test analyses 2-60 genes, depending on the chosen test, looking at genes associated with cancer and cardiovascular disease in a saliva sample. Mary-Claire King who discovered BRCA1 is an advisor for Color2. Patients can sign up for the test on the website, which will be delivered once approved by the primary physician or a Color network physician. The cost of up to $349 can be paid by the individual or alternatively Color works with insurance companies.

A criticism for their test is that outside of BRCA1 and BRCA2, which account for 5-10% of all breast cancers, not enough is known about the tested genes and how environment and lifestyle come into play for doctors to act on test results. Color has board-certified genetic councilors on staff to interpret results and explain them to users.

Color has partnered with companies including Slack, Medium, Stripe, VISA and Levis to offer subsidized Color tests a benefit for employees. The ATHENA Breast Health Network at University of California, San Francisco uses Color tests to screen women with a view to optimizing or reducing mammography depending on personal risk.