Your recent article on gene patenting and breast cancer screening stated incorrectly that Saskatchewan did not provide these genetic-sequencing tests.1 Saskatchewan is continuing to offer genetic testing for both the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes to its residents. Because we do not have a local testing facility, we have been sending our DNA samples to a clinical lab in Ottawa since about 1998.
Because Ontario is challenging the matter in court, we have been able to continue providing this service. This is an important point because there is very high demand for this service and we want Saskatchewan physicians to be appropriately informed so that they do not mislead patients who ask about this.
Edmond G. Lemire Head, Division of Medical Genetics Royal University Hospital Saskatoon, Sask.
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