Although some cancers are genetically inherited, most cancers have no significant family history. This is because the gene mutations that cause cancer occur after birth and may be caused by hormonal exposures, or mistakes when cells divide. Since these mutations are not passed down through generations, they are considered “sporadic.” However, some families have multiple members with cancer. This is because people with certain cancer genes tend to have a higher risk for developing other types of cancer.
Research has shown that approximately 10% to 15% of all cases of cancer are hereditary, and the cause can be either a hereditary gene or a lifestyle factor. Despite the difference in prevalence, some types of cancer are strongly related to genes, including ovarian cancer and melanoma. Regardless of the type of cancer, genetics are still important in understanding cancer risks and finding ways to prevent and treat the disease.
There are many factors that shape a person’s risk for cancer, and many of them can be changed. Some of these factors are inherited, and others can be changed. In addition, genes contain DNA that tells cells what to do. Some genes are more likely to develop cancer than others, while others are completely out of the question. However, researchers are still discovering more about the genetics behind cancer and know that there is no single “cancer gene” in people. Instead, the mutations are often caused by many different gene glitches.
Many people don’t realize that some types of cancer are hereditary. In fact, up to 10% of all cancers are hereditary, and these individuals receive a working copy of the cancer susceptibility gene from one parent. In some cases, a person’s parents have no family history of cancer, while their parents don’t. This is good news for those who want to be proactive in their risk assessment.
Several factors influence a person’s risk of cancer, including smoking, alcohol, diet, and obesity. Infections and environmental pollutants may also play a role. However, genetics only accounts for a small percentage of cancers. A family’s overall risk can be affected by a combination of environmental and lifestyle factors. This makes it difficult to determine which cancer risk factors are most important. If the risk of cancer is very high, it may be worth consulting a genetics service to assess the risk of cancer in your family.
People with the NF1 gene mutation have a greater risk of developing central nervous system and gastrointestinal stromal tumors. However, this doesn’t mean that every member of the family will have this mutation. Women with the mutation have a 72% chance of developing the disease. They tend to develop their cancers earlier and in both breasts. It’s not clear which gene causes cancer, but if it’s present, it increases your risk of developing cancer.
