Posted on 2 months ago by Laurentina Kennedy
LetsGetChecked launches genetic testing service
MyGeneticScreen analyses genes associated with conditions that include hereditary breast and ovarian cancers
Peter Foley, LetsGetChecked chief executive, said MyGeneticScreen harnesses the power of genomics. Picture: Bryan Meade
LetsGetChecked, which secured a $1 billion valuation nearly three years ago, has launched a new genetic testing service designed to highlight a predisposition to hereditary conditions such as cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
Using a saliva specimen, MyGeneticScreen analyses 11 genes associated with conditions that include hereditary breast and ovarian cancers, Lynch syndrome, and familial hypercholesterolemia.
The company said the tests is designed to encourage patients to seek advice, take necessary preventive measures, and facilitate early detection to reduce morbidity and mortality.
“MyGeneticScreen harnesses the power of genomics and promises to transform how we predict, prevent, and treat many diseases,” said Peter Foley, founder and chief executive of LetsGetChecked.
Thirty different tests
“We believe that knowledge is the key to better health and with the launch of MyGeneticScreen we are making valuable genetic insights more accessible, ushering in a future where individuals are the architects of their own proactive health management journey.”
Founded in 2015, the at-home testing company has shipped more than 10 million diagnostic tests to customers globally since it was founded.
Having initially offered sexual health tests, it now provides over 30 different tests, as well as a telehealth and pharmacy service in some of the markets in which it operates.
LetsGetChecked, which laid off a number of employees nearly two years ago, employs over 700 people and has raised $283 million to date.
LetsGetChecked’s backers include golfer Rory Mcllroy, as well as Cadin Capital, CommonFund Capital, Illumina Ventures and Transformation Capital.
The company became a tech unicorn – the name given to a privately owned company valued at $1 billion or more – in June 2021 after a $150 million D funding round.