Cancer remains a significant global health issue and is the second leading cause of death in the U.S., following heart disease. While many cancers are linked to lifestyle, environmental, or unknown factors, some are hereditary, resulting from genetic mutations passed down through families. Research suggests around 10% of cancers fall into this category. Family cancer syndromes, or hereditary cancer syndromes, are conditions where families have a heightened risk of developing certain cancers, often at a younger age or alongside other health issues.
Genetic testing can provide insight into one’s risk for certain cancers, although it cannot predict with certainty that cancer will develop. According to Alexandra Barbarese, a certified genetic counsellor at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, this information enables individuals to consider preventive measures, early detection plans, and even possible preventative treatments. Genetic testing can also help individuals understand their likelihood of passing cancer-related genetic mutations to their children and identify other at-risk family members.
MD Anderson at Cooper follows guidelines from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) to determine who should consider genetic testing. Indicators include being diagnosed with cancer at a young age, experiencing multiple cancers in the same individual, having close family members with the same type of cancer, and encountering rare or unusual cancers. Testing generally involves a blood or saliva sample, but before any tests, a detailed interview covers the patient’s medical and family history, screening history, and the implications of test results.
Patients who test positive or have high familial risk receive ongoing support from MD Anderson at Cooper’s cancer genetics team. This team discusses risk management, coordinates follow-up visits with specialists, and advises on appropriate screenings, such as mammograms or colonoscopies.
Though most cancers are not hereditary, studies indicate that at least 5% of breast, ovarian, pancreatic, colorectal, prostate, and uterine cancers have genetic connections. Notably, hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome increase the risk for several cancers, including colorectal and uterine.
Genetic testing offers individuals valuable information that can help guide proactive health decisions and foster a clearer understanding of family cancer risks.
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