Understanding Hereditary Cancer
Most cancers are not inherited. Only about 10% of cancer cases are due to genetic changes passed down through families. The majority arise from a combination of factors such as age, hormones, infections, environment, and lifestyle.
The Role of Genes in Cancer
Certain genetic changes can increase the risk of developing cancer. In hereditary cancers, these changes, known as "variants," disrupt genes that control cell growth and division, raising the risk for cancers like breast, ovarian, and colon cancer.
Considering genetic testing
Understanding your risk is crucial for early detection and prevention, especially with a personal or family history of cancer. Genetic counselling helps you understand your genetic risk, explore testing options, and decide if genetic testing is right for you.
Identifying Hereditary Cancer Risk
Early-onset Cancer - Individuals diagnosed with breast, ovarian, or colon cancer before age 50 may have an underlying genetic predisposition.
Multiple Cancers - Having multiple primary cancers in one individual may indicate a hereditary risk.
Rare Cancers - Certain rare cancers or a cluster of different cancers within a family may indicate a hereditary syndrome.
Family History - If multiple close relatives on one side of the family have been diagnosed with the same or similar cancers, it's important to consider genetic factors.
Contact Us:
Empower yourself with our genetic counselling and testing services. Submit your inquiry or make a referral through our designated form. We are here to support you in understanding and managing your cancer risk.
1. Family history and inherited cancer genes. (2015, June). Cancer Research UK; CRUK. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/causes-of-cancer/inherited-cancer-genes-and-increased-cancer-risk/family-history-and-inherited-cancer-genes
2. Hereditary Cancer Syndromes and Risk Assessment. (2019). acog.org. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2019/12/hereditary-cancer-syndromes-and-risk-assessment
3. NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms. (2021). National Cancer Institute; Cancer.gov. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/inherited-cancer-syndrome