<span style="color: #222222;">In Jammu and Kashmir for the first time, the Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu has initiated genetic cancer testing using Next Generation Technology. Akashvani Jammu Correspondent reports that the Department of Microbiology has successfully started genetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations using cutting-edge Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) technology. The initiative aims to enhance capacity in genetic sequencing and provide the most advanced technology in diagnostics and research. NGS is being utilised in oncogenetic testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, targeting harmful mutations that predispose individuals or their relatives to cancer. It is worth mentioning that mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes can significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer, making up 65-85 per cent for BRCA1 mutations and 40-85 per cent for BRCA2 mutations by the age of 70. Positive BRCA1 or BRCA2 results enable individuals to make informed decisions about available options to potentially reduce their risk of developing breast cancer. The department also plans to gradually incorporate Human Papillomavirus NGS testing in the second phase. Head of the Department of Microbiology, GMC Jammu, Dr. Sandeep Dogra, said this technology represents the forefront of diagnostics and resources. The testing usually takes 7-10 days, with multiple people being tested simultaneously.</span><br />