A family history of cancer can leave you with many questions. So it is natural to worry if this inherited risk can cause you cancer. These conditions are usually called genetic predisposition syndromes. Staying aware of this condition can help you stay active so you can detect changes early in case you feel something is suspicious.
What is a genetic predisposition syndrome?
Genetic predisposition syndromes are conditions that you may inherit from your family. These changes can happen due to mutations in specific parts of your body that keep you safe from cancer. These mutations can be passed to you from your parents and may increase your chances of developing cancer. But this doesn’t mean that you will definitely have cancer later in your life. These mutations can make it easier for cancer to develop if other environmental factors are added over time.
Common hereditary syndromes linked to cancers
Some hereditary syndromes can increase your risk for certain cancers over the years. BRAC1 and BRAC2 can increase your risk of breast, ovarian, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. Lynch syndrome can also be linked to colorectal, endometrial, ovarian, and several other cancers. Also, the Li-Fraumeni syndrome can be responsible for breast cancer, bone cancers, brain tumors, and soft tissue sarcomas.
Signs you shouldn't ignore
Not every cancer can be hereditary. But sometimes, a few patterns can indicate that a genetic mutation can be involved in your case.
Different family members diagnosed with the same type of cancer.
Cancer occurring at a young age.
Family member with a history of more than one primary cancer.
Rare combination of cancers.
Cancer affects several generations of your family.
How can family history influence cancer?
Your family history can give you a lot of information about your cancer risk. If certain cancers have repeated across multiple generations in your family, then your chances of cancer can be high. But this does not mean that you will be diagnosed with cancer. It can just indicate that your cancer risk can be higher.
How does genetic testing support prevention?
Taking advice from your genetic counselor and undergoing genetic testing can help you understand your condition better. You don’t need to be scared if you have a genetic predisposition to a syndrome. Instead, you can take preventive steps to protect yourself from cancer. You can start screening early and get yourself monitored regularly. This can help you identify any suspicions before it gets too late. A genetic counselor can help you with your results so you can decide the next steps.
Timely care for a better tomorrow
An inherited cancer risk can make you feel worried. But this doesn’t mean you are diagnosed with cancer. With the right plan and getting help from an expert, you can make a rightful decision that can support you and your family’s well-being.