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Genetics and Cancer Risk

Some types of cancer run in certain families, but most cancers are not clearly linked to the genes we inherit from our parents. Gene changes that start in a single cell over the course of a person's life cause most cancers. In this section you can learn more about the complex links between genes and cancer.

Family Cancer Syndromes

Cancer is such a common disease that it is no surprise that many families have at least a few members who have had cancer. Sometimes, certain types of cancer seem to run in some families. But only a small portion of all cancers are inherited. 

Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk

Genetic testing can be useful for people with certain types of cancer that seem to run in their families, but these tests aren't recommended for everyone. Here we offer basic information to help you understand what genetic testing is and how it is used in cancer.

Related Topics

Genes and Cancer

Learn how cells can change during a person’s life to become cancer, how certain types of changes can build on inherited gene changes to speed up the development of cancer, and how this information can help us better prevent and treat cancer.

Biomarker Tests and Cancer Treatment

Finding certain genes or mutations can help diagnose and treat cancer. Learn more here.

Precision or Personalized Medicine

Precision medicine is a way health care providers can offer and plan specific care for their patients, based on the particular genes, proteins, and other substances in a person’s body. Learn more here.

More Resources

Flyer: Cancer Biomarkers

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