Genetic testing is becoming a key part of healthcare around the world. India is also stepping into this space and showing potential. While the global genetic testing market is worth $17 billion, India’s share is much smaller at $60 million.
However, India stands out by offering some of the most affordable genetic tests globally. It comes with prices that are 50 to 70% lower than in other countries.
This makes India an emerging leader in both affordable and innovative genetic services.
What Exactly is Genetic Testing?
Genetic testing, which is also called genome testing, examines a person’s DNA. It helps in finding variations or mutations. Such mutations can reveal if a person is at risk of some disease, or it can also explain the cause of an existing illness.
Genetic testing like help is not only for people with health issues. Healthy people can also use it to learn about their risk for conditions and diseases.
There are two major uses for genetic testing:
- Predictive Testing: It has to be used by healthy individuals. Helps in finding out if they might develop a disease in the future. Some diseases found out are cancer or heart disease.
- Diagnostic Testing: It helps doctors find out the cause of a disease in people who might already have certain symptoms.
Genetic Testing vs. Routine Lab Tests
Genetic tests are different from routine medical tests. Regular lab tests, like blood sugar or cholesterol checks, measure things in the body. Genetic testing, on the other hand, looks at a person’s DNA and it needs advanced technology and trained professionals.
Genome sequencing is one type of genetic test. This helps read a person’s complete DNA sequence to detect any changes or mutations.
Such mutations can influence health and disease risks.
Various companies in India are now focusing on genetic testing. Some well-known names include:
- Strand Life Sciences
- Mapmygenome
- MedGenome
Trends in the Indian Genetic Testing Market
Genetic testing has been available in India for more than ten years. On the other hand, the market is still developing and evolving.
Some of the recent developments like affordable genome sequencing have increased interest.
A few weeks ago, Strand Life Sciences company has introduced one of the cheapest genome sequencing tests in India. This cost just INR 12,000.
It makes genetic testing more accessible to many people.
Typical Prices of Genetic Testing in India
- Basic genetic testing packages range: from INR 7,000 to INR 12,000
- Advanced tests for rare disorders or cancer range: from INR 70,000 to INR 80,000
Examples:
Mapmygenome company offers a test called “Genomepatri” for INR 6,999. Such test screens for over 100 health conditions.
MedGenome provides a cancer and inherited disorders test for INR 12,000.
Types of Genetic Testing in India
There are two broad categories under which genetic tests are available:
- Retail-Focused Tests (B2C):
Such tests are known to be sold directly to consumers and usually do not need a doctor’s prescription.
Examples include ancestry tests, wellness DNA tests, and some sort of risk assessments for future health issues.
- Clinician-Oriented Tests (B2B):
Such tests are ordered by doctors which help in diagnosing diseases and deciding treatments.
Examples include cancer screenings and several tests for inherited disorders.
Challenges in the Indian Genetic Testing Market
Even though India might offer some of the most affordable genetic tests, below are some challenges:
- Lack of Regulation:
India still does not have clear rules about how genetic tests should be marketed.
In countries like the U.S., government agencies like the FDA monitor genetic testing companies to ensure they back up their claims with appropriate and accurate data.
For example, the U.S. government stopped 23andMe, which is a popular DNA testing company, from selling its products for two years. The reason behind it was that it lacked proper data. Experts believe India might need better rules to protect its customers.
- Limited Awareness:
Many people in India are still unaware of some of the benefits that genetic testing provides. This makes it hard for companies to expand their services.
- Privacy Concerns:
Genetic data is known to be super personal and sensitive. Without clear privacy policies, people might worry that their data might be misused.
Related – The Actual Complete Expense Of Genetic Testing In India
The Future of Genetic Testing in India
Although the Indian market for genetic testing is small, it has a lot of potential.
Experts do believe that the demand for genetic testing will grow as more people learn about its benefits.
Affordable tests might make it easier for more people to access these services.
Below are a few factors that shall shape the future of this industry:
- More Competition:
Companies including Reliance-backed Strand Life Sciences are entering this market vigorously. This competition is likely to bring prices down even further.
- Technological Advancements:
There are some new technologies including Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) and AI-powered diagnostics. They make genetic testing faster, more reliable, and more affordable.
- Government Support:
If the Indian government offers support or such subsidies for genetic testing, the market might grow quicker.
Public-private partnerships might also help in expanding access to such tests in both urban and rural areas.
- Medical Tourism:
India is already a popular destination for some medical tourism because of its affordable healthcare services.
Genetic testing helps attract international patients looking for high-quality yet low-cost diagnostic services.
Why Genetic Testing is Important
Genetic testing offers several important benefits:
- Early Detection of Diseases: This can help identify risks with some severe diseases like diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
- Personalized Healthcare: Doctors can use genetic information to create custom treatment plans that suit each patient’s needs.
- Preventive Care: People with higher genetic risks can notably take steps to prevent or manage potential health issues before they might be severe.
- Family Planning: Genetic tests can inform couples in case they carry genes for inherited disorders. Such help can make certain informed decisions on planning a family.
Although some genetic tests seem expensive, the long-term benefits might make them a worthwhile investment for many people.
India’s Growing Role in Genetic Testing
India’s genetic testing market is still developing, but at the same time, it has great potential. Companies like Strand Life Sciences, Mapmygenome, and MedGenome are already making genetic testing affordable and quite accessible.
With more people learning about the benefits, genetic testing might be an important part of preventive healthcare in India.
India’s combination of low prices, advanced technology, and further growing public awareness is helping it stand out on the global stage.
As competition increases and new technologies make testing more affordable, the demand for genetic services is likely to rise. On performing better regulation, government support, and public awareness.
India has the potential to become a leader in the global genetic testing market.
Genetic testing should not only help people understand their health risks but also encourage early detection and personalized care. As more people start using these services, genetic testing could play a key role in improving healthcare across India
