Hereditary Cancer 101: What you need to know about inheriting cancer
Most families include at least one person who has had cancer. But a family history of cancer doesn’t necessary mean that each member of the family will get cancer. Only 5 to 10% of of people with cancer have a type that is caused by inherited gene changes. So how does one determine if they have a risk of hereditary cancer? The first step is to gather a family health history. Talking to family members about the type of cancers they have had, and the age at which they were diagnosed is essential. If some family members have deceased, talking to other relatives may provide insight into the cause of death and the possibility that the family member had a cancer caused by changes in the genes. Sometimes, talking to family members about personal matters can be difficult. There are several online resources that provide templates and guidelines for overcoming barriers and gathering important information.
Once you’ve gathered as much information as possible, share the findings with a family physician and/or consider seeing a genetic counselor. Jeff Shaw, M.S., Senior Genetic Counselor at Penrose Cancer Center in Colorado Springs helps patients sort through their family histories and guides them through the process of genetic testing if warranted. He answers a few questions about the process of seeing a genetic counselor and about hereditary cancers.
Get Your Rear in Gear: What are some common forms of hereditary cancer?
Jeff Shaw: Some of the more common types of cancer that can be part of an inherited predisposition include breast, ovary, uterine, and colon cancer, however many more types of cancers can be inherited. Most of these conditions are rare however, up to 10% of some types of cancer can be due to a strong hereditary risk.
Get Your Rear in Gear: Is there a particular age when it is best to come in for genetic counseling?
Jeff Shaw: It depends on the type of cancer predisposition in the family but usually sooner is better than later. There are some rare types that can cause an increased risk for cancer in childhood. For most inherited predispositions, the cancers can occur at earlier ages than is typical. For example, occurring under age 50 for breast, ovarian, and colon cancers. These people will usually start screening at younger ages, more frequently, and the physician might use different techniques for screening such as breast MRI or colonoscopy. There are also many things that a person can do at young ages to help keep their risk for developing cancer as low as possible.
Get Your Rear in Gear: What if I am unsure of my complete family medical history. How do I know if I am a good candidate for genetic counseling?
Jeff Shaw: Of course the family history is the major way we are able to determine if there might be an inherited condition in the family. We suggest you get the best information you can and then talk to a genetic counselor or physician trained to evaluate a family history. The more information you can get the better. It is most helpful to know who had the cancer, what type of cancer was diagnosed, and how old they were when they were diagnosed. Remember that for ALL types of cancer, the history from the mother’s AND father’s side of the family is important. Knowing how many people did NOT have cancer and how old they are or at death is also helpful.
Get Your Rear in Gear: What if I know that a particular cancer runs in my family, but I have no signs or symptoms of that cancer. Should I still come in for counseling?
Jeff Shaw: Many times I hear people say “If it isn’t broke, don’t fix it”, meaning that there is no point to seek attention if you are not having symptoms. Many types of cancer, including colon cancer, will usually not have symptoms at early stages. precancerous polyps in the colon are unlikely to cause any symptoms. The earlier a cancer is diagnosed the higher the chance is to survive the cancer and with the least amount of treatment. This is especially true with colon cancer where polyps can be removed BEFORE they turn into a cancer.
“Most people take their cars in regularly to get their oil changed. Nothing is wrong with the car, but if they don’t change the oil the engine will be ruined. The same is true for cancer screening. If you don’t get it done regularly, you can end up with an advanced cancer, instead of an early stage cancer. If your car deserves this kind of care, so do you!”
Get Your Rear in Gear: Is this something I can discuss with my primary care provider?
Jeff Shaw: Absolutely. She/He can discuss with you if your history could indicate an increased risk for cancer and if necessary, refer you to a specialist in evaluating cancer histories.
Get Your Rear in Gear: Are there other resources where people can go for more info?
Jeff Shaw: There are many credible sources on the internet. Of course, the Colon Cancer Coalition at www.getyourrearigerblog.com has excellent information regarding colon cancer. The American Cancer Society at www.cancer.org and the National Cancer Institute at www.cancer.gov have very good reviews regarding inherited cancer. WebMD at www.webmd.com also has very good information for consumers.
Get Your Rear in Gear: Thank you, Jeff! This has been a helpful reminder for all of us to take responsibility for our health. And thanks to the folks at Penrose Cancer Center for providing essential information about hereditary cancer.
It is important to remember that even without a family history, screening procedures, such as colonoscopy, are necessary. Seventy five percent of patients with colon cancer have no family history of the disease. Healthy lifestyle choices are also important. Good diet and exercises habits play a key role in cancer prevention. Don’t know how to get started? Click here to get your rear in gear!
Read More:
Very nice article, thank you so very much…please join us at http://www.lynchcancers.com to learn more about Lynch Syndrome International, an organization dedicated toward public awareness of Lynch syndrome and support for those affected by it.