A family history of cancer can increase your risk for developing cancer. In fact, family history constitutes one of the most important risk factors for the majority of common cancers, including breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancer, to mention a few. And early identification can lead to intervention and education that may reduce your risks. Early Identification Identifying people who are at high risk of developing cancer can lead to swifter and more appropriate care and management.
Genetic conditions can greatly increase the risk of cancer.
If individuals are found to have a gene that may increase risk, they can have more frequent checkups to detect cancer at an early, curable stage. For some types of cancer, there are ways to intervene to prevent the disease. Genetic testing, however, is a lengthy, expensive, and emotional process for individuals and families and should always involve a genetics counselor. Genetic abnormalities that make people susceptible to cancer are very uncommon. Most people with a family history of cancer have a somewhat elevated risk but should not be alarmed.