" I have mothers with small children come to me and say, ‘You found that I had early breast cancer – because of you, I don’t have cancer.’ You’ve just prevented that person from dying early, and to prevent an early, unnecessary death is incredibly meaningful. "
- Anne Wojcicki

The quote conveys a profound sense of appreciation for the significant impact that early detection can have on people's lives. It highlights how finding breast cancer in its initial stages allows individuals, particularly women with young children, to receive timely treatment and increase their chances of recovery, thereby preserving their health and ensuring they live longer.

Beyond its immediate context, this quote underscores the broader importance of proactive healthcare measures and early diagnosis. By emphasizing the critical role of prevention and detection, it stresses that medical professionals and innovations in screening techniques can dramatically alter outcomes for patients, sparing them from severe suffering or even premature death. This perspective not only elevates the value of medical advancements but also underlines the emotional and psychological relief these developments offer to those who might otherwise face dire circumstances.

Anne Wojcicki is a co-founder of 23andMe, a company that specializes in genetic testing and personalized health information. She has been an advocate for accessible genetics research and its application in improving public health through early detection and prevention strategies. Her background as both a business leader and an active participant in the healthcare industry gives her insights into the transformative power of medical advancements on individual lives.