Global online retailer Shein has partnered with Australian charity Pink Hope in the launch of a Genetic Testing Program aimed at early detection of cancers. The program launched yesterday, March 1, open to 50 eligible families.
The partnership with Pink Hope is expected to fund the genetic testing of 50 Australian families with private service Eugene Labs, and will include a panel test of 62 genes, including BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Using Telehealth, the program is available for families nationally to apply for. The criteria will be based upon family history and those who do not fit within the Medicare benchmarks, and will factor in the delays many eligible families face in the current system.
The program will involve both pre- and post-test genetic counselling, in addition to the test itself.
Pink Hope CEO Sarah Powell said Shein’s contributions will benefit the charity.
“With some of the most aggressive cancers forming in genetic carriers, it’s essential that individuals are provided with their options as early as possible to ensure they are able to make proactive decisions about their health based on their genetic risk,” Powell said.
Shein is a Chinese-born global fashion and lifestyle e-retailer committed to accessibility. The company said it uses on-demand manufacturing technology to connect suppliers to its supply chain, reducing inventory waste and enabling the teams to deliver affordable products to customers globally.
It has a global reach through more than 150 countries.