Imagine if you could predict your risk of developing cancer and take steps to prevent it – sounds like something out of science fiction, right? But thanks to modern genetic science, this is possible! Cancer is often seen as a disease that occurs randomly, but in some cases, it runs in families due to inherited genetic mutations. These are known as hereditary cancers, which means the risk of developing certain type of cancer is passed down from parents to children.

What are Hereditary Cancers?

Think of your DNA as your body’s instruction manual. Sometimes, small errors (mutations) in certain genes could increase the risk of occurrence of cancer. These mutations can be inherited causing certain types of cancers forming a pattern, putting multiple family members at risk. Approximately 5% to 10% of cancers are attributable to a hereditary cancer predisposition syndrome.

The most common hereditary cancers include:

• Breast, Ovarian and Prostate, Pancreatic cancers and Melanoma
• Colon Cancer and related cancers including endometrium, gastric, small bowel, glioblastoma, ureter, or renal pelvis.
• Breast, Uterus and Thyroid cancers
• Certain types of Leukemia
• Colon cancers with polyps, non-cancerous polyps in colon, gastric and duodenum.
• Kidney Cancers and multi-system disorder characterized by abnormal growth of blood vessels (called hemangioblastomas or angiomas). Hemangioblastomas may develop in the retina, certain areas of the brain, the spinal cord.

But here’s the catch – just because cancer runs in your family doesn’t mean you will definitely get it! It just means you need to be extra vigilant.

Who is at Risk for Hereditary Cancers?

• Multiple family members (on the same side – could be either paternal or maternal) have had the same type of cancer or related cancers.

• Did any relative get cancer at a young age (before 50)?
• Did someone in your family have two or more types of cancer?
• Has a male relative had breast cancer?
• A known genetic mutation (eg:BRCA)

If you answered YES to any of these, you might have a hereditary cancer risk! But don’t panic—there’s a lot you can do to protect yourself.

Genetic Testing: Your Secret Weapon Against Cancer!

Imagine if you could predict the weather months in advance and prepare for a storm. That’s what genetic testing does for cancer—it tells you your risk before cancer strikes!

I Have a High Risk… What Now?

A high genetic risk doesn’t mean cancer is guaranteed. It just means you can get ahead of it with these strategies:

• Early & Frequent Screening – Catch It Before It Starts!
• Eat Smart: Load up on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Move More: 30 minutes of exercise a day can cut cancer risk significantly!
• Ditch Smoking & Limit Alcohol: These are major cancer risk factors.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity increases cancer risk—stay in shape!

Talking About Cancer: Breaking the Silence in Indian Families

In many Indian households, cancer is a taboo topic. Families avoid discussing genetic risks because of marriage prospects, fear, or stigma. But staying silent can be dangerous. In many Indian households, cancer is a taboo topic. Families avoid discussing genetic risks because of marriage prospects, fear, or stigma. But staying silent can be dangerous. By sharing your family’s cancer history, you can protect your loved ones!

• Know your family history.
• Consider genetic testing if you’re at risk.
• Take action with screening, lifestyle changes, or medical options.
• Start a conversation—help others in your family!

Cancer doesn’t have to be a surprise. With the right information, you can stay ahead and live a long, healthy life!