Genetic testing in Kenya

Seven years ago, doctors told her that she had a 87 per cent chance of developing breast cancer and a 50 per cent risk of ovarian cancer. Angelina Jolie, the American actress, had had a genetic test that showed that she carried the BRCA1 gene, a mutated inherited gene that increases a woman’s risk of ovarian and breast cancer. Her decision to get the test done was precipitated by the fact that her family had a long history of ovarian and breast cancer. Armed with the worrying information, she decided to get a preventative double mastectomy. About two years later, she had her ovaries and Fallopian tubes taken out to reduce her chances of developing ovarian cancer.

Genetic testing has since then become a pursuit for many. And in Kenya, the practice is catching on.