Familial cancer

Familial cancer is a type of cancer that occurs more frequently in certain families than in the general population. This can be due to a variety of factors, including shared environment, lifestyle, or genetic factors. Familial cancers can be caused by an inherited gene mutation that is passed down from generation to generation.

Causes

Familial cancers are often caused by an inherited gene mutation. These mutations can increase a person's risk of developing cancer. Some of the most common gene mutations that can lead to familial cancer include BRCA1, BRCA2, and Lynch syndrome genes.

Types of Familial Cancer

There are many different types of familial cancer, including:

• Breast cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Colon cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Melanoma
• Pancreatic cancer

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of familial cancer often involves genetic testing to identify any inherited gene mutations. This can include blood tests, saliva tests, or other types of genetic testing.

Treatment

Treatment for familial cancer can vary depending on the type of cancer and the specific gene mutation. Treatment options can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies.

Prevention

Prevention strategies for familial cancer can include regular screening tests, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, preventive surgery.

See Also

• Genetic testing
• Cancer genetics
• Hereditary cancer

Familial cancer Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? WikiMD's DocFinder can help find general and specialist physicians.	Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials.