Genetic tests can determine whether you are at risk of developingcancerby identifying mutations in a persons genes.
The risk of developing cancer increases if you have a genetic predisposition or susceptibility to cancer.
Inherited vs. Acquired Mutations
Most cancers start because of acquiredgene mutations that happen during a persons lifetime.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
Acquired mutations only affect cells that grow from the mutated cell.
They do not affect all the cells in a persons body.
All the cancer cells will have the mutations, but normal cells in the body will not.
Because of this, these mutations are not passed on to a persons children.
Verywell / Ellen Lindner
What Is a Genetic Predisposition to Cancer?
Genetic predisposition is an increased chance of developing cancer due to gene mutations in specific genes.
These variations are frequently inherited from a parent.
That predisposition can be large or small, depending on the particular gene and other risk factors.
What Are Genetic Tests for Cancer?
Some conditions are resulting from mutations in a gene likecystic fibrosisandsickle cell disease.
Conditions triggered by many contributing factors are called multifactorial or complex disorders.
Should I Get Tested?
How Is Genetic Testing Done?
Now you also have the option of conducting a genetic test at home.
This test requires you to collect a saliva sample in a test tube.
Afterwards, you will have to ship it to the lab.
Test results are posted on a secure website for your review.
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National Cancer Institute.Genetic testing fact sheet.
MedlinePlus Genetics.What are complex or multifactorial disorders?
American Cancer Society.Should I Get Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk?
MedlinePlus Genetics.How is Genetic Testing Done?
MedlinePlus.Can a direct-to-consumer genetic test tell me whether I will develop cancer?
Harvard Health.Should you try a home genetic test kit?
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American Cancer Society.Genetic testing, screening, and prevention for people with a strong family history of colorectal cancer.
Urology Care Foundation.Genetic Testing for Prostate Cancer: What You Should Know.
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American Cancer Society.Genetic Counseling for People at High Risk of Melonoma.
American Cancer Society.What Causes Kidney Cancer?
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer(HDGC).
National Cancer Institute.Genetic Testing for Inherited Cancer Susceptibility Syndrome.
