Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in six deaths globally is due to cancer.

While some types of cancer may occur due to environmental factors, others can be caused by genetic mutations that are passed down from one generation to another. Hereditary cancer is a type of cancer caused by genetic mutations that you inherit from your parents. In this article, we will explore what you need to know about hereditary cancer.

What is Hereditary Cancer?

Hereditary cancer is a type of cancer that is caused by genetic mutations. People with hereditary cancer have a higher risk of developing cancer at a younger age and may have family members who also have had cancer.

Hereditary cancer is caused by mutations in specific genes that are passed from parents to their offspring. These genetic mutations can increase a person’s risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast, ovarian, colon, and prostate cancer.

Causes of Hereditary Cancer

Hereditary cancer is caused by genetic mutations. In some cases, these mutations are inherited from parents, while in others, they occur spontaneously. Hereditary cancer can be caused by mutations in tumor suppressor genes or oncogenes.

Tumor suppressor genes are responsible for preventing cells from growing and dividing too quickly or in an uncontrolled way. Oncogenes are responsible for promoting cell growth and division.

Types of Hereditary Cancer

There are several types of hereditary cancer, including:.

Breast Cancer: This is one of the most common types of hereditary cancer. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
Ovarian Cancer: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are also associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Colon Cancer: Lynch syndrome is a type of hereditary colon cancer that is caused by mutations in several genes.
Prostate Cancer: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are also associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Diagnosing Hereditary Cancer

If you have a family history of cancer, you may be at risk of hereditary cancer. Talk to your doctor about genetic testing to determine if you have inherited a genetic mutation that increases your risk of cancer.

Genetic testing involves a blood or saliva test to look for changes in genes that are associated with hereditary cancer.

Reducing Your Risk of Hereditary Cancer

If you have a genetic mutation that increases your risk of hereditary cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Some of these steps include:.

Regular Cancer Screening: Regular screening tests can help detect cancer early when it is easier to treat. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate screening tests for your age and risk factors.
Prophylactic Surgery: Prophylactic surgery may be an option for people at high risk of developing cancer. For example, women with BRCA mutations may choose to have their ovaries and/or breasts removed to reduce their risk of developing ovarian or breast cancer.
Medications: Some medications can reduce the risk of developing certain types of hereditary cancer. Talk to your doctor about whether this is an option for you.
Lifestyle Changes: Leading a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking, can help reduce your risk of cancer.

Conclusion

Hereditary cancer is a type of cancer caused by genetic mutations that are passed down from one generation to another.

People with hereditary cancer have a higher risk of developing cancer at a younger age and may have family members who also have had cancer. If you have a family history of cancer, talk to your doctor about genetic testing to determine if you have inherited a genetic mutation that increases your risk of cancer.

If you have a genetic mutation that increases your risk of hereditary cancer, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce your risk.