The following are some risk factors for a hereditary cancer predisposition:

• Cancer with known inherited gene mutations (e.g., breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancers)
• Two or more close family members who have had the same type of cancer
• The same type of cancer in several generations of the family

What is Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing is relatively new. It began with the discovery of the BRCA1 gene in 1994, followed by the BRCA2 gene discovery in 1995. Women with a specific mutation of these genes are more likely to develop breast cancer. Genetic testing is now available for some of types of hereditary cancers, including breast, ovarian, and colorectal.

Genetic testing consists of a laboratory blood test. The test will help determine if you inherited a gene mutation that contributed to cancer. Genetic testing also helps determine if you are at greater risk of developing the same cancer again or of developing another type of cancer, or if your family members may have an inherited risk for cancer.

Genetic testing for cancer is not appropriate for everyone. It is typically offered to individuals in high-risk families, with the following features in their family history:

• Cancer that occurs at an early age
• Having multiple family members with cancer in several generations
• A clustering of certain types of cancer in a family
• A primary cancer occurring in paired organs (e.g., breast cancer occurring in both breasts)
• Rare cancers

Who are Genetic Counselors?

Genetic counselors are specially-trained health professionals who counsel individuals about their genetic risk and the implications of genetic testing.

When you first meet with a genetic counselor, you may take a genetic risk assessment. Your genetic counselor will discuss your personal and/or family history of cancer and help you prepare a family tree (also known as a pedigree). Your family tree lists members of each generation of your biological family, including the type of cancer each relative had and their age at diagnosis. A genetic counselor will then analyze the pattern of cancer in your family.

If you undergo genetic testing, your genetic counselor will support you through the process. They will help simplify complex concepts into terms you can understand, and address your questions and concerns.

What Can Genetic Testing Do for You?

Genetic testing can help you make decisions about how to manage your risk for cancer. If it is determined that you are at greater risk for getting cancer again or for getting another cancer, your doctor can give you options to help reduce your risk. For example, if it is determined that you are at risk for breast cancer recurrence, your doctor may recommend adding breast MRIs to your screenings. Genetic testing can also help determine if other, unaffected, family members should be counseled and tested.

Deciding whether or not to undergo genetic testing is a personal choice. It is important to consider the benefits and drawbacks of genetic testing before making a decision.

Benefits & Drawbacks of Genetic Testing

Genetic testing can both relieve uncertainty and help you make informed decisions about managing your health in the future. A negative result can provide a sense of relief and, in some cases, reduce the need for frequent checkups and screening tests. A positive result can help you take steps to reduce the risk of recurrence or of developing another cancer. For example, you may decide to explore available prevention and treatment options.

However, genetic testing can also pose psychological, social or financial consequences. A positive result can cause anxiety, depression or guilt. Genetic testing may provide only limited information about an inherited condition, and some genetic mutations detected by a positive test may never lead to disease.

Also, since results of genetic testing can reveal information about other family members, genetic testing can sometimes create tension with a family. Confidentiality is another concern. Fortunately, the law prohibits insurance companies and employers from discriminating against anyone based on genetic information about that individual.

NOTE: THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED NOR IMPLIED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD ALWAYS CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR FOR INFORMATION ABOUT YOUR CANCER RISK AND GENETIC TESTING FOR CANCER.

Tips for Reducing Your Risk for Cancer

• Don't use tobacco. About one-fourth of all cancers are related to tobacco use. Smoking has been linked to several cancer types, including lung, oral, bladder, esophageal, throat, and laryngeal cancers. Heavy smokers and those who began smoking at a young age are at an increased risk of developing the disease. Second-hand smoke exposure puts non-smokers at risk as well.
• Limit alcohol intake. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation (if at all). Excessive alcohol consumption increases your risk for certain types of cancer, such as oral, throat, pharyngeal, laryngeal, esophageal, kidney, liver, colorectal, and breast cancers.
• Protect your skin from the sun. Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer. Try to minimize your time in the sun. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and wear a hat and protective clothing/eyewear. Do not use indoor tanning beds or sunlamps. Also, be aware of any changes to your skin, like moles or other marks, and discuss these changes with your doctor.
• Maintain a healthy diet and weight. Eating well and maintaining a healthy weight for your body may help to reduce your risk of certain cancers, such as colon, esophageal, kidney and stomach cancers. Eat a well-balanced diet, including five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Avoid foods high in saturated fat, sugar and salt. A dietitian can help you design a nutritious meal plan.
• Stay active. Regular exercise may play a role in cancer prevention. Physical activity may lower your risk of cancers of the breast, colon, uterus, and prostate. It can also help you increase your energy and avoid obesity. A rehabilitation therapist can help you develop a safe exercise program to meet your individual needs.
• Get regular screening tests. Your doctor may recommend routine self-examinations and screening tests to detect early signs of cancer, such as cervical, breast, skin, oral, colon and prostate cancers. Your doctor may also recommend immunizations to protect against viruses that may lead to certain cancers. Follow-up visits with your doctor can help identify any changes in your medical condition.
• Avoid risky behaviors. It is important to avoid risky behaviors, such as having multiple sexual partners and sharing contaminated needles. Such behaviors can lead to infections (hepatitis B and C, HPV, HIV, etc.) that may increase your risk for certain cancers. Protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections by practicing safe sex and seek help for your addiction if you use drugs.
• Be aware of environmental hazards. Excessive exposure to certain environmental substances (e.g., asbestos, benzene, radon, ionizing radiation) may increase your risk for cancer. Discuss your concerns about hazards in your workplace with your employer. Have your home tested for radon levels. Follow health and safety procedures, such as wearing protective clothing, to control your exposure to environmental hazards.
• Reduce your stress. Ongoing stress can weaken your immune system and make you susceptible to infection. It’s important to find ways to reduce stress, such as relaxation techniques, distraction, and meditation. A mind-body therapist, spiritual counselor, and/or support groups can help you manage stress as well.
• Review your medical and family history. Knowledge also plays a role in cancer prevention. Understanding your family history can help you understand your hereditary risk for cancer so you can make informed healthcare decisions. You may decide to go for genetic counseling and testing. The decision to undergo genetic testing is a personal one, and you should consider the pros and cons of testing beforehand.
  

NOTE: THIS INFORMATION IS NOT INTENDED NOR IMPLIED TO BE A SUBSTITUTE FOR PROFESSIONAL MEDICAL ADVICE. AVOIDING KNOWN RISK FACTORS DOES NOT ENSURE PREVENTION AGAINST CANCER, NOR DOES EXPOSURE TO A PARTICULAR CANCER RISK FACTOR MEAN THAT YOU WILL DEFINITELY GET CANCER. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF YOUR PHYSICIAN OR OTHER QUALIFIED HEALTHCARE PROVIDER REGARDING YOUR CANCER RISK.

Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) is a network of cancer hospitals unlike any other.

CTCA doctors specialize in treating many forms of cancer, including complex and advanced cases. They work as a team, alongside cancer experts across multiple disciplines, to keep you strong in body, mind and spirit.

When you meet with your CTCA care team, they listen to you and provide clear, well-defined choices. Together, you and your care team develop a comprehensive treatment plan based on your unique diagnosis and needs.

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I hope this information has helped you in some way. I will check in with you again next month. In the meantime, stay strong and hopeful.