Genetics & Family History
Articles about how your genetic make-up and family history (or lack of) influence your cancer risk.
Genetic Counseling and Genetic Testing
Patients are referred for genetic counseling and possible testing if a genetic syndrome is known or suspected to be present in a family.
Genetic Syndromes
An introduction to genetic mutations, genetic syndromes and how they relate to cancer.
Genetic Mutations and Cancer Risk
The article provides an introduction to the genetic mutations of BRCA1 & 2, FAP and HNPCC and associated cancer risk.
Ashkenazi Jewish Heritage and Genetic Risk
Many Jewish people who trace their ancestors to central or eastern Europe have Ashkenazi Jewish heritage. There are a number of genetic disorders that are seen more commonly in the Ashkenazi population, several with links to cancer risk.
Genetic Counseling & Testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 Gene Mutations
Introduction to BRCA1 & BRCA2 gene mutations, how they affect breast cancer risk and genetic testing considerations.
No Cancer In Your Family...No Risk For You, Right?
Many people believe that having no one in the family with cancer means they have no cancer risk. However, only 15-20% of all cancers occur in the setting of family history and most are not related to family history.
Family History Means I'm at Higher Risk, Right?
We hear so much about family history that it makes people think any family history is a strike against you in terms of cancer risk. In reality, only 15-20% of cancers are related to family history.