Are you feeling anxious because cancer seems to run in your family? Are you concerned about your own health risks? 

Do you find yourself searching for symptoms or wondering about the best ways to prevent or treat hereditary cancer? 

It's natural to worry when we see our relatives face such challenges. Understanding early detection and preventive measures can make a big difference.

Let's explore what hereditary cancer really means. How to recognise potential warning signs, and the steps you can take towards prevention and treatment.

 If you’re reading this and wondering, what exactly is family cancer syndrome, you’re not alone. 

Karetrip is here to give you all the clarity you seek.

Family Cancer Syndrome 

Family cancer syndrome is also known as inherited cancer syndrome or genetic cancer syndrome. It is a condition when a ‘gene change’ that greatly increases cancer risk, runs in a family.

• This happens because of genetic defects (called mutations) passed down from parents to their children.

• These mutations can significantly increase risk of developing cancer.

• Yet, only about 5% to 10% of all cancers are known to be strongly linked to gene defects that are inherited from a parent.

Identifying Risks: When to Consider Genetic Testing for Cancer

The cancer acquired will probably be the inherited cause if the patient shows the following symptoms.

• The development of cancer at an unusually young age
• The occurrence of the same type of cancer in close relatives
• The appearance of cancers in paired organs (both kidneys or breasts, for example)
• The presence of more than one type of cancer in a single individual

Not all the cancers in the family can make you prone to inherited cancer syndrome. However,  the people falling under below categories are recommended genetic testing for cancer risk :

• Cancer in a close relative, like a parent or sibling (brother or sister), is more likely to be a cause for concern for you than cancer in a more distant relative. 
• Having 2 relatives with cancer is more concerning if they are on the same side of the family. If they are one from each mother’s side and father’s side then risk is comparatively lower.
• It is more concerning if many relatives have the same type of cancer than if they have several different kinds of cancer. 
• More than one case of the same rare cancer is more worrisome than cases of a more common cancer.

These  guidelines help you understand the potential risks. Consulting a healthcare professional for personalised advice is recommended.

Common Genetic Syndromes and Their Role in Cancer Risk

Cancer can start when just one gene changes, or when many genes that work together change. 

Scientists have found over 400 genes that can lead to cancer. If you inherit some of these genes, you might have a higher chance of getting cancer.

Some examples include:

• Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome (HBOC):

Caused by mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.

Individuals with these mutations have a significantly increased risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

This syndrome can also lead to fallopian tube cancer, primary peritoneal cancer, male breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and others. 

• Lynch Syndrome (Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer or HNPCC): The most common cause of hereditary colorectal (colon) cancer.This syndrome can also lead to cancers of endometrium, ovary, stomach, pancreas, small intestines, kidney, brain, etc.

It is associated with mutations in MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM genes.

These genes are normally involved in repairing damaged DNA. When one of these genes isn’t working, it can lead to DNA mistakes, which might lead to other gene mutations and eventually cancer.

• Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP):

It is characterised by the development of hundreds to thousands of polyps in the colon and rectum during the teenage years.

It can lead to nearly 100% risk of colorectal cancer, if untreated. They are caused by mutations in the APC gene or MUTYH genes.

• Li-Fraumeni syndrome: Also called the sarcoma, breast, leukaemia, and adrenal gland [SBLA] cancer syndrome.

This rare inherited syndrome can lead to increased risk of cancers as suggested by its name. 

It involves mutations in the TP53 gene, which encodes a protein that prevents cells from dividing too quickly. Without a functional p53 protein, cells can divide uncontrollably, leading to cancer. 

People with Li-Fraumeni syndrome can develop more than one cancer in their lifetime. They also seem to have a higher risk of getting cancer from radiation exposure

Benefits of Genetic Testing for Cancer

Genetic testing for cancer helps in many ways.

It can ease worry by giving clear information. If you have genes linked to cancer, you can get specific treatments.

Family members can also learn if they have these genes and how to avoid cancer.

Additionally, you can take steps to prevent passing these genes to your children.

Drawbacks of Genetic Testing for Cancer

Genetic testing for cancer can have downsides.

• Genetic testing  might make people feel stressed, anxious, or guilty. It can also change how families get along.

• There's the fear that others, like friends, employers, or insurers, might find out about one's genetic risk. In short, the psychological burden suffered by the patient will be massive.

• Moreover, there are concerns about the cost of the test and extra tests that might be needed later.

Genetic Testing and Counseling

Genetic counselling is recommended both before and after genetic testing. It provides individuals and families with information about the risks, benefits, and limitations of genetic testing, and helps them make informed decisions.

Understanding Hereditary Cancer Genetic Testing: Types and Purposes

Hereditary genetic tests for cancer look for specific changes in genes that can show if you have a higher risk for some cancers. Here's more about the types of tests:

• Single Mutation Tests: This test looks for a known change in a part of one gene. If a family member has a certain gene change known to cause cancer, this test checks if you have it too.

• Single Gene Testing: This checks all parts of one gene to find any changes. It's used when there's a reason to believe a specific gene might have something wrong, but we don't know exactly where.

• Panel Tests: These tests check many genes at once to find any changes. They are useful when a person might have a higher risk for cancer, but it's not clear which gene could be the cause. This way, doctors can check many possibilities at the same time.

Each type of test is chosen based on what's known about your family's health history and what might be most helpful for you.

Knowing about cancer in your family history is essential for your health. 

Seeking medical advice and genetic counselling is an important step towards understanding and managing family cancer syndrome. Strong psychological health is just as important as physical well being in fighting cancers.

Taking tests has both benefits and drawbacks. Choosing whether to undergo testing or not is a personal decision .

Sometimes, being scared of what you might find out can make you feel really stressed. But understanding and dealing with these worries is a big part of keeping yourself healthy.