Cancer Many individuals have a family history of cancer. In most cases cancer is NOT inherited.
Most cancer happens by chance or is caused by an environmental factor such as tobacco smoke.
Certain cancers may be present in more than one family member simply because they are common. Therefore, while a family history of cancer may increase your risk slightly, it does not necessarily mean that cancer is running in your family. Cancer survivors are often concerned that they had an inherited form of cancer and may benefit from a cancer risk assessment regarding their risk of a second cancer or cancer risk in their children. Talk to your doctor about your concerns. Copyright 2000 Mark S Daly , All Rights Reserved.