Genetic testing enables early diagnosis and personalized prevention of prostate cancer, which records 71.7k new cases per year in Brazil.
During Blue November, advances in genetic technology have become a key ally in the fight against prostate cancer. According to INCA (Brazil’s National Cancer Institute), the disease ranks second among the most common cancers in men, behind only non-melanoma skin cancer, with an estimated 71.7 thousand new cases annually.
For Arthur Silva, Regional Manager for LATAM Oncology and Precision Diagnostics at QIAGEN, the scenario highlights the urgency of integrating molecular tools into male cancer care. Genetic testing helps identify predispositions before tumors appear, offering both patients and doctors better data for informed decisions.
“Genetic sequencing can be completed within 24 to 48 hours using simple blood or saliva samples. This speed accelerates diagnosis and guides clinical monitoring,” said Silva. “Through this analysis, it is possible to detect mutations in genes associated with hereditary prostate cancer, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.”
According to the specialist, genetic results make it possible to implement intensified screening and early interventions, significantly reducing mortality. He also noted that patients with a family history of prostate cancer face higher risks, and mutations in BRCA genes are linked to other cancers, such as male breast, pancreatic, and melanoma.
Silva added that classic symptoms — difficulty urinating, incomplete bladder emptying, and blood in the urine — tend to appear in advanced stages. Moreover, men over 55, those with obesity, or overweight individuals are at increased risk.
“Due to fear, taboos, or lack of awareness, many men neglect preventive exams. This delay can complicate treatment and reduce survival chances,” said Silva.
Access and policy challenges
Currently, there is no established timeline for the broad inclusion of genetic testing for prostate cancer in Brazil’s public health system (SUS). However, in 2025 a project was approved mandating the availability of genetic tests for cancers such as breast, ovarian, and colorectal, opening the door for future inclusion of prostate screening.
Some private health plans already cover the exam fully, provided the patient meets the criteria defined by the National Supplementary Health Agency (ANS).
Silva concluded that genetic testing goes beyond technological innovation. It combines prevention, clinical strategy, and access to information. When responsibly implemented, it can support earlier diagnoses and more effective treatments, especially for those at higher risk.
