Is
Cancer Risk in Your Family Tree?
If
your family has a history of cancer you may have a higher risk
of getting
cancer, but don't panic. According to the Mayo
Clinic, there are about 1,000,000 new cases of cancer diagnosed
every year. Only 5 to 10 percent of these are linked to a family
history.
So
while your chances of getting cancer are higher, a healthy
diet, exercise
and informed choices about tobacco and alcohol use can help to lower
the risk for you. A hereditary predisposition to cancer does not
mean that you are going to get cancer.
If
you are concerned about the risk in your family, speak to your doctor.
Some factors that may indicate that there is a hereditary link are:
- Cancer
that develops 10 to 20 years earlier than a random cancer.
- Cancer
that strikes bilaterally, such as in both breasts or at two different
locations in one organ.
- Two
or more members of one generation who have the same type of cancer.
- Particular
tumor site combinations seen within one family, especially breast
and ovary, or colon and uterus.
If
your doctor agrees that there may be a genetic component to cancer
in your family you may want to explore genetic testing. You will
definitely want to take a look at what you are eating and the amount
of exercise you do. Both diet and weight are linked to increased
risk for cancer.
also see -> Watch
Your Weight for Breast Health
Diet
& Breast Cancer : The Prevention Connection
Myths
& Scare, or Real Risks?
Elsewhere
on the Web:
Breast
Cancer Risks & Prevention Booklet
Breast
Cancer - Family History
