Cancer and Genetics - It's a family issue
Some types of cancer can be strongly influenced by gene alterations that run in families and it is important for people with certain types of cancer to learn if their cancer was caused by an inherited mutation, because information on genetic background could have a significant impact on treatment choices.
Cancer and Genetics| ~5-10% of all cancers
While most cancers are sporadic, some people are born with a gene mutation that they have inherited from their mother or father. This altered gene puts them at a much higher risk for cancer than other people. When cancer occurs because of (or due to ) an inherited gene mutation, it is referred to as hereditary cancer and it reflects the ~5-10% of all cancers.
Familial Cancer | What are the chances
Cancer predisposition genes may be inherited and passed on by men and women. If one parent carries such a gene, each offspring has a 50 percent chance of inheriting it and be more susceptible to cancer.
Hereditary cancers are not significantly different from non-hereditary cancers, in general. It is the way that the cancer occurs within the family that should indicate whether it’s hereditary.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer, ask your physician if you meet the guidelines for genetic counseling and the HerediGENE Test.