These traits are inherited in different ways.
Dominant traits require only one gene from either parent to get the illness.
Recessive traits need genes from both parents, making them much less common. Other illnesses, such as diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers, depend on a number of interacting genes. A couple of genes involved in breast cancer have now been identified. One of the most important times to review genetic illnesses is during pregnancy. Your doctor will ask if any relatives had miscarriages or children with birth defects, or if relatives suffered from illnesses during pregnancy, such as toxemia, diabetes, or other medical problems that may relate to childbirth.