If you are concerned that you are experiencing symptoms that could potentially point to cancer, please see a doctor immediately to be referred to an oncologist. Genetic testing for cancer is used to gather information as a preventative measure; it is NOT treatment nor a diagnosis.
Should you get genetic testing for cancer? There are several reasons gene testing for cancer is wise. This article will discuss some of these and what genetic testing can reveal about an individual’s cancer predisposition.
Inherited Cancer
Cancer predisposition genes (CPG) can be responsible for many embryonal cancers and can cause prostate and lung cancer in adults. CPGs can contribute to cancerous gene mutations in two ways: When multiple genes are effected by the germline CPG mutations it can cause colorectal cancer, as well as breast and ovarian cancer. With this being the underlying factor in almost 15% of the cases of ovarian cancer and 20% of thyroid cancer.
Oncogenic Mutations – Mutations that occur after birth within a specific cell. They are called “somatic cancer mutations,” which is where many kinds of cancer begin.
Germline Mutations – This is when mutations have occurred in every cell; whether inherited or occurred at conception, the mutation is present.
Should You Get Genetic Testing For Cancer?
Here are some situations in which genetic testing for cancer predisposition would be a wise choice to preempt any complications in the future:
- If an immediate family member has / has had cancer (parent, sibling or child)
- Multiple relatives on one side of the family have had the same type of cancer
- Many members of your family have had a cancer linked to a single gene mutation
- Hereditary cancer in the family
- The mutation has been found by gene testing for cancer in multiple family members
Genetic Testing for Cancer
Genetic testing for cancer is used to gather information which can aid in the early diagnosis and management of the disease. Cancer predisposition genes can be picked up by gene testing for cancer and this data is imperative for early detection and treatment.
This is not a diagnoses and should not be considered one, only an oncologist can determine if cancer is present in the body after their own extensive testing. Genetic testing is for cancer predisposition, to help take preventative measures and manage the possibilities you are made aware of by the gene testing for cancer from GENEWAY™.
Contact us at GENEWAY™ for more information on genetic testing for cancer predisposition and your overall wellbeing.
