Cancer is fundamentally a genetic disease caused by alterations in the genes that regulate cell growth and reproduction. These alterations, or mutations, can occur due to several factors, such as random errors during cell division, exposure to carcinogens like tobacco smoke or UV rays, or inherited genetic changes passed down from parents. While most genetic changes do not lead to cancer, the accumulation of these changes over time can result in the transformation of healthy cells into cancerous ones.
Although cancer itself cannot be inherited, a predisposition to developing it can be. This happens when an individual inherits a genetic mutation that increases their risk of cancer, such as mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, which significantly raise the likelihood of developing breast cancer. This inherited risk explains why some cancers appear to run in families. However, inheriting a cancer-related genetic change does not guarantee the development of cancer; it only increases the risk.
A family cancer syndrome is a rare condition where members of a family are more likely to develop specific types of cancer due to inherited genetic mutations. These syndromes can lead to early onset cancers or other health issues and are caused by specific genetic changes passed down through generations. However, not all cancers that seem to run in families are due to these syndromes; environmental factors or common family habits might also contribute.
Genetic testing can help identify if someone has inherited mutations that increase cancer risk. Such testing is usually done using a blood sample, though saliva or other cells may also be used. Not everyone needs this testing, and a healthcare provider can help determine if it’s necessary based on medical history. If a test reveals a genetic mutation, a genetic counsellor or doctor can help interpret the results and what they mean for the individual and their family.
Cancer arises when genetic changes disrupt the normal regulation of cell growth and division. Most cancer-causing changes occur in genes, which direct the production of proteins that control these processes. Some genetic changes might increase the levels of proteins that encourage cell growth, while others might decrease proteins that prevent excessive growth or trigger cell death. Cancer development usually requires multiple genetic changes over time, and every individual’s cancer is unique in its combination of genetic alterations.
Various types of genetic changes can lead to cancer. These include point mutations, where a single DNA nucleotide is altered, as well as larger chromosomal rearrangements, deletions, or duplications. Some changes occur outside the genes themselves, affecting regions of DNA that regulate gene activity. Additionally, epigenetic changes, which alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence, can also contribute to cancer. Environmental factors like tobacco smoke and certain viruses can cause both genetic and epigenetic changes.
Understanding cancer as a genetic disease underscores the complexity of its causes and the potential for personalised treatment. Through advancements in genetic research, we now have tools to better understand individual cancer risks, and therapies tailored to specific genetic changes offer new hope for effective treatments. This knowledge paves the way for more targeted and successful approaches in the battle against cancer.
While cancer’s genetic basis is a complex puzzle, ongoing research continues to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes, bringing us closer to more effective prevention and treatment strategies.
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