Cancer is genetically determined, can a parent have cancer that can be inherited? Be sure to pay attention to the check-up
On a sunny afternoon, Mr. Zhang received a call from the doctor, and at that moment, his world seemed to stand still. The diagnosis confirmed that he had the same type of bowel cancer as his father. Mr. Zhang's father died of the disease 10 years ago, and he has been fearing that day will come. Now, that fear has become a reality.
This is not a single incident, but a reality faced by many families. Cancer, the word is enough to cause deep fear and uneasiness, especially when it recurs in families. We often hear the question, "Is cancer really genetically determined?" If my parents have cancer, will I get sick too? "These questions are not only troubling, but also fraught with a sense of urgency. Genetics do play a role in cancer, but that doesn't mean fate is immutable.
This article will delve into the link between cancer and genetics and explain why regular cancer screening is crucial for people with a family history of cancer. Knowing this information can not only help us face our fears, but also take practical actions that may save our lives or those of our loved ones.
The genetic code of cancer: what does your family history determine?
How genes affect cancer development
Cancer is caused by mutations in DNA within cells, which may be triggered by genetic factors or external environment such as tobacco smoke, ultraviolet light, etc. During cell replication, if DNA damage is not repaired, it can lead to cancer. Hereditary cancers are caused by specific genetic variants (mutations) that are passed from parents to children. For example, mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are known to significantly increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. About 5% to 10% of all cancers are considered hereditary, which means that these cancers are directly related to familial genetic factors.
Common hereditary cancer syndromes
Certain genetic conditions make carriers more susceptible to developing certain types of cancer, and these are called hereditary cancer syndromes. For example, people with Framini syndrome can develop many types of cancer, including brain tumors, kidney cancer, and lung cancer, often at a young age. Another example is hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (Lynch syndrome), in which patients are at significantly increased risk of developing colon cancer, and family members may be at similar risk.
Why genetic counseling is important
Genetic counseling provides an opportunity for individuals with a family history of cancer to assess their personal risk and take preventive measures. Through the collection of a detailed family history and possibly genetic testing, genetic counselors can help individuals understand their risk of inheriting certain cancers. This counseling also provides psychological support to help patients and family members deal with the emotional stress of possible genetic risks.
With a deep understanding of cancer genetics, we can not only better understand the mechanisms of cancer development, but also be able to reduce the incidence in high-risk individuals through preventive measures. This section provides an overview of the link between genes and cancer, the types of genetic cancers, and the importance of genetic counselling, with the aim of providing practical information and directions for action for middle-aged and older people with a family history of cancer to help them take proactive preventive measures.
The necessity and method of cancer prevention examination
Cancer screening that can't be ignored: your health comes first
1. Why is early screening important?
Cancers are often asymptomatic in their early stages and are often found to be at an advanced stage. Early screening can help detect cancer at an early stage of development, resulting in better treatment outcomes and significantly improved survival rates. For example, colorectal cancer has a five-year survival rate of more than 90% if detected early, compared to less than 10% at an advanced stage. Therefore, regular cancer screening is essential to improve the success rate of treatment.
2. Recommended cancer screening methods
Breast cancer: Mammograms (breast scans) are recommended every two years for women between the ages of 50 and 74. Women with a family history should be screened starting at age 40 or earlier and considering annual MRI.
Colorectal cancer: Adults between the ages of 50 and 75 should have a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) once a year, or a colonoscopy every 10 years. For individuals with a family history of the disease, screening should begin at an earlier age and shorten the interval between examinations.
Lung cancer: Long-term smokers (at least 30 pack-years old), aged 55 to 80 years, are recommended for screening with a low-dose CT scan.
3. Lifestyle prevention strategies
In addition to regular screenings, lifestyle changes are also an effective way to reduce the risk of cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol intake, and avoiding tobacco products are all positive lifestyle modifications that can help prevent all types of cancer.
4. Case Study: Practical Effect of Cancer Prevention Screening
Studies have shown that implementing regular cancer screenings can significantly reduce mortality from specific cancers. For example, a long-term study of 100,000 participants showed that those who were regularly screened for bowel cancer had a 33% lower bowel cancer mortality rate than those who did not.
Early detection is the key to defeating cancer. By combining regular screening and lifestyle modifications, cancer incidence and mortality can be greatly reduced. Encourage all eligible people to actively participate in regular check-ups and make the necessary lifestyle changes to protect themselves and their families.