Thus, fewer steps have to happen before cancer develops, and cancer may be seen at younger ages than otherwise expected. Through a series of signals, DNA instructs our cells to grow and develop. In cancer, two major types of genes provide specific cell growth signals. These genes have important functions in controlling normal cell growth. However, when they do not function properly, cancer can develop.
Cancer is a common disease.
Thus it is expected that families will have one or more relatives with some form of cancer. Nevertheless, several clues exist to suggest hereditary cancer in a family. The genes involved with cancer can come from either side of the family. Thus, a cancer gene trait could be passed to a daughter through her father who did not have cancer. Accurately interpreting family history information is an essential aspect of genetic counseling.