Genetic Cancer: Cancer occurs when genes develop abnormalities, known as ‘mutations’, which can be passed from parents to children, genetic mutations are the cause of breast cancer, prostate cancer, ovarian cancer and colon cancer. However, not everyone with these mutations gets cancer. These genes can lie dormant for years and sometimes for life. For example, they may skip one generation and emerge later in the next generation, however, the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes that cause breast cancer can be passed down through generations of a family (Genetic Cancer). Can You Inherit Cancer? Yes, because research indicates that some cancers can run in families from generation to generation.
For this reason also there is a risk of cancer in the family.
Dr. Meenu Walia, Senior Director and HOD, Medical Oncology and Hematology at Max Super Specialty Hospitals Patparganj, Vaishali and Noida explains that while family members often share behavioral patterns like smoking, they also have general exposure to pollutants and other environmental factors Is. These are some other reasons due to which sometimes the risk of getting cancer in the family increases.
Must do genetic test
He explains, “While it is true that not all people will develop genetic cancer, such individuals are at highest risk. Any family member who has or has had cancer in the past should be screened for this genetic risk. Necessary steps should be taken.” According to health experts, we now have the ability to determine this risk through a simple blood test. Dr revealed, through these ‘genetic tests’ one can find out whether a person has inherited these mutations or not.
Consult a genetic counselor
The health expert says, “Any talk of cancer is nerve-wracking, so it is recommended to meet with a genetic counselor before undergoing these tests and continue with counseling to decide if the results are a cause for concern.” Know what action to take next. A negative gene result puts an end to all worries. Depending on the type of mutation detected in the test, oncologists can prescribe various options to reduce the risk.”
treatment and preventive measures
Experts detailing cases of mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, where women with these genetic mutations have the effective option of removing both breasts, fallopian tubes and ovaries to prevent breast and uterine cancer Is. However, they have not yet been accepted as accepted by doctors or people at risk, especially those who want to have children.
‘chemoprevention’
Another approach is ‘chemoprevention’, which he explained “involves the use of cancer treatment drugs as prevention in case of genetic mutations. Research is ongoing in this area. There is not enough current evidence to support this.” Not there.”
live a healthy lifestyle
In such a situation, he suggested that lifestyle changes such as weight control, quitting smoking can also help reduce the risk of cancer in people who have got genetic mutations. Whereas, for women with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, regular mammography is recommended to detect breast cancer before any symptoms appear. Science is continuously uncovering the secrets of cancer, which is the most dreaded and incurable disease. It is important that people understand the meaning of genetic risk.
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