'Viking gene' cancer risk testing to be rolled out across Scotland
Scotland is launching a genetic testing program for thousands of people with ancestral links to Orkney and Shetland to identify 'Viking gene' variants. These variants are linked to an increased risk of breast, ovarian, and prostate cancers, allowing for earlier intervention.
Why it matters
This initiative represents a significant advancement in preventative medicine by using population-specific genetic data to improve public health outcomes.
Thousands with ancestral links to Westray in Orkney and Whalsay in Shetland are to be offered testing for gene linked to increased risk of cancer
Facebook X / Twitter Copy Link Posted in Comhairle nan Eilean Siar Health NHS The Highlands Last updated Aug 4th, 2026 at 11:27 Thousands of people across Scotland with ancestral links to Orkney and Shetland are to be offered genetic testing after researchers identified inherited gene variants linked to an increased risk of cancer.
The programme led by the University of Aberdeen and NHS North of Scotland Genetics Services will offer testing for specific BRCA gene variants, found more commonly in people with ancestry from Westray in Orkney and Whalsay in Shetland.
Around 5,000 tests are expected to be carried out across NHS Grampian, Orkney, Shetland, Highland, Tayside, Lothian and Greater Glasgow and Clyde.
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