Cancer can sometimes be an inheritable disease?
Yes, some types of cancer can be an inheritable disease due to genetic mutations passed from parents to offspring. These are called hereditary or familial cancers. When a person inherits a mutated gene that increases the risk of developing certain cancers, it is known as a genetic predisposition or cancer susceptibility. Hereditary cancers account for approximately 5-10% of all cancers.
It is important to note that inheriting a genetic mutation does not guarantee developing cancer. Other factors such as lifestyle, environmental exposures, and overall health can influence the likelihood of cancer development in individuals with genetic predispositions.
Some well-known examples of hereditary cancers include:
1. Breast Cancer: Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can significantly increase the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. These genes are involved in DNA repair mechanisms.
2. Colorectal Cancer: Lynch syndrome (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer or HNPCC) is caused by mutations in genes involved in DNA mismatch repair. Individuals with Lynch syndrome have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, as well as endometrial, stomach, and other cancers.
3. Ovarian Cancer: Besides BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, other genetic alterations such as mutations in the TP53 and RAD51D genes can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
4. Pancreatic Cancer: Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA2, CDKN2A, and PALB2 have been associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.
5. Prostate Cancer: Certain genetic variations in genes like HOXB13 and BRCA2 have been linked to an elevated risk of prostate cancer.
6. Retinoblastoma: This eye cancer is highly heritable and caused by mutations in the RB1 gene.
It is crucial for individuals with a family history of specific cancers to undergo genetic counseling to determine if they carry genetic mutations that predispose them to certain cancer types. Genetic testing can help guide personalized screening, prevention strategies, and medical interventions to reduce cancer risks.