Cancer is seen as an illness that arises at random; yet, in certain instances, it can run in families as a result of inherited genetic alterations. Knowing your genetic cancer risk factors for developing cancer is vital to early diagnosis and treatment, and a personalised approach to cancer treatments. Today, thanks to advances in science, individuals can have genetic tests performed to see if they carry any genetic markers associated with particular types of cancer.
In the following written piece, Dr Sandeep Batra, a prominent medical oncologist, discusses the basis of genetic risk factors for developing cancer, who would be a good candidate for getting a test done, and how that could be helpful in making proactive decisions regarding your health care.
What Is Genetic Cancer Risk?
- Genetic cancer risk results from the presence of inherited gene mutations, which increase the chance of developing cancer. When there is an increase in cancer due to inherited gene mutations, it means a parent passed on a genetic mutation to their child.
- Genes responsible for repairing DNA damage or regulating cell growth may be mutated due to the presence of inherited mutated genes. Abnormal cells may grow out of control because the genes do not work properly, and this is how a person can develop cancer.
- It’s been estimated that 5-10% of all cancers have a hereditary nature and are due to genetic inheritance; this is referred to as a hereditary form of cancer. The majority of commonly seen levels of inherited cancers are found among breast, ovarian, colorectal, and prostate cancers.
- Through genetic testing, healthcare providers can identify individuals with the aforementioned mutations and then implement an appropriate, individualised screening and prevention plan.
What are the common Cancers linked to Genetic Mutations?
Some types of cancers have a higher chance of being inherited. Some of these are breast cancer/ovarian cancer, bowel cancer (colorectal), prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer and womb cancer (endometrial). Mutations in genes called BRCA1 and BRCA2 cause many people with these mutations to have a higher chance of developing breast and/or ovarian cancers, such as breast cancer or both. Other mutations increase the likelihood of developing colorectal or pancreatic cancer.
Who Should Consider Genetic Testing?
- If you have several family members with cancer, especially young ones, this may suggest a hereditary pattern.
- A cancer diagnosed before age 50 may also signify a genetic predisposition. If someone has developed multiple cancers, there may be an underlying genetic mutations.
- Certain rare cancers have well-defined associations with genetic changes passed through the family.
- If a relative has had testing for a cancer-causing mutation, it may be helpful for other family members to consider testing options as well.
What are the benefits of Genetic Cancer Testing?
- Individuals who are at increased risk of developing cancer can begin screening tests sooner and more often in order to improve their likelihood of discovering it while in the early stages of development.
- Fewer doctors will typically offer patients lifestyle modifications, medicines, or avoidance-related surgery as a way to help them lower their risk of developing cancer.
- Assessing patients’ hereditary cancer risk also allows healthcare professionals to develop new treatment methods based on genetic findings.
- Testing will assist family members in determining whether or not they are also at risk for developing cancer and may take the steps necessary to prevent that from happening.
Having a genetic test can impact how we prevent, screen for, and treat cancer with greater accuracy and certainty through identifying inherited gene mutations. This allows people to pursue early detection and prevention/ than it would for someone who has no family history of the same tumours. Everything should be considered on an individual basis when deciding whether or not to undergo this testing with the assistance of your doctor, particularly a cancer specialist or oncologist.
If you have been diagnosed with multiple family members having the same type of cancer, or you are concerned about what cancers may have been inherited in your family history, then Dr Sandeep Batra is a Medical Oncologist who will give you some guidance on whether genetic testing might benefit you. By educating yourself and working with qualified medical professionals, you will be able to take control over your own health and reduce the overall burden of cancer in future generations through prevention.