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Genetic predisposition to cancer means a greater risk of developing life-threatening diseases. Genetic testing is a way to find the mutations that are responsible for the development of different types of cancer. The test is targeted at specific cancers and is a form of prevention. What cancers can we predict thanks to genetic testing?
Neoplasms and the specificity of genetic tests
Information stored in our genes determines the characteristics of each person, such as blood type and eye color. They also apply to genetic diseases that we inherit from our parents or earlier generations. In the case of cancer, we may have a genetic predisposition to them. Cancer itself does not automatically pass from parents to children. However, if mutated genes are found in an offspring’s DNA, the likelihood of developing cancer will increase significantly.
Genetic tests performed for neoplastic diseases rely on analysis of specific genesthat may be responsible for the development of the selected type of cancer. Often times, cancer that a family member has suffered from is an important risk indicator for the health of other relatives. That is why genetic testing is recommended in people with a family history of cancer, especially malignant or multi-organ cancer.
- Check what are the indications for genetic testing and how does the test work: What are genetic tests and how do they work?
The samples used for genetic testing are most often blood from a vein in the arm or saliva.
Genetic tests for breast and ovarian cancer
One of the most common cancers in women is breast and ovarian cancer. It most often develops after the age of 50, although there has been much talk about appropriate breast cancer prevention much earlier. Regular breast examinations, mammography or breast ultrasound are recommended, and in the case of ovarian cancer, transvaginal ultrasound is the most effective diagnosis.
However, not every woman is aware that she should carry out the above-mentioned examinations regularly, but also start prophylaxis early enough. We can obtain such information on the basis of genetic tests. If a family history of breast and ovarian cancer or any other cancer has occurred genetic research will show whether the woman has inherited any dangerous mutations. If so, medical checkups should begin before the age of 25.
Greater predisposition to developing breast and ovarian cancer occurs mainly in the case of mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, sometimes also in CHEK2, NBS or NOD2.
- Read more about genetic testing for breast and ovarian cancer.
Genetic testing for prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is a common cancer among men aged 50 and over. If it is detected late, it is associated with poor prognosis in most cases. This is why men, including younger men, who are at risk of having family members with cancer, should undergo genetic testing.
See also: Which Genetic Factors Can Cause Cancer?
Early diagnosis of prostate cancer is crucial in its treatment. The symptoms of this disease are not very characteristic, therefore DNA tests will help to detect whether they may be caused by neoplastic changes. The formation of prostate cancer is influenced by mutations in the CHECK2, HOXB13, NBS1 and BRCA1 genes.
- Read more about genetic testing for prostate cancer.
Genetic tests for lung cancer
Lung cancer is a cancer with the highest mortality rate among oncological diseases in Poland. The main reason for the increased predisposition to develop this disease is smoking. Active smokers may become ill with several dozen times more likely than non-smokers.
When it comes to hereditary factors, a mutation in the CDKN2A gene increases the risk of developing cancer twice. Other genes tested for lung cancer include EGFR, BRCA2, and TP53. Genetic factors contribute to the development of lung tumors in non-smokers and people not exposed to other environmental influences.
Genetic tests for colon cancer
The predisposition to colorectal cancer is only partially genetic. They usually result from a mutation in the CHEK2 gene and increase the incidence in people under 50 years of age. Genetic testing is worth doing if someone in your family has had colorectal cancer or another cancer of the digestive system. In addition to the genetic burden, obesity increases the risk of this condition in smokers, and in people with a family history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
Genetic tests for pancreatic cancer
Pancreatic tumors are very aggressive, and patients with them usually do not have a good prognosis. There is no specific group of causes of this type of cancer, but the disadvantages in this context are alcohol abuse, smoking or an inadequate diet including animal fats. The disease is also more likely in people with diabetes and mutations affecting, among others, CDKN2A, BRCA1, BRCA2, CFTR, LKB1, ATM, APC genes.
Pancreatic cancer genetic testing is a prophylaxis that should be decided by people with a family history of pancreatic cancer. This type of family cancer is related to the BRCA2 gene.
Genetic tests for thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer comes in several different varieties. A genetic background up to fourfold increases the risk of follicular and papillary thyroid cancer. The patient’s prognosis depends on the type of cancer and its advancement. The indication for genetic testing is the detection of medullary thyroid cancer. If the tests show a hereditary mutation, family members should also be tested as this particular tumor does genetic background in about 25 percent
The mutations promoting thyroid cancer mainly include the CHEK2 and RET genes.
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