A close family member can also be your father, brother, or uncle, but breast cancer is very rare in men. Having this information may help you learn about your cancer risk and help you decide if genetic testing is right for you. It is important to know that a family history of cancer does not mean you are going to get cancer. Scientists do not know all the reasons why people get cancer.
Genes are nature's blueprints for every living thing.
Genes determine how your body will function and grow, as well as the color of your hair and eyes. Some genes do not function properly because there is a mistake in them. If a gene has a mistake, it is said to be mutated or altered. In fact, all people have altered forms of some genes. Some alterations can increase your risk for certain illnesses such as cancer.