Should You Get Tested for Cancer? Family History Risks

Q: Should You Get Tested for Cancer? Family History Risks

Smile： The hereditary factors for blood cancer and stomach cancer account for only 1%, while up to 99% of cases are due to environmental factors that lead to cancer. <br>In Taiwan, the primary causes of liver cancer are hepatitis B and C. <br>Therefore, it is recommended to get t

Familial ~

I would like to ask, because I have heard my mother say that my grandfather died of stomach cancer and my grandmother died of blood cancer, and almost all relatives on my grandmother's side have died of cancer, do I need to get checked? My mother passed away this year due to late-stage liver cancer complicated by kidney failure.
Should I get checked, and if so, what kind of tests should I undergo? PS: I'm not entirely sure if this is true, as she has already passed away.

Xiao Wei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/07/18

Dr. Huang Jianling reply Family Medicine

Smile: The hereditary factors for blood cancer and stomach cancer account for only 1%, while up to 99% of cases are due to environmental factors that lead to cancer.
In Taiwan, the primary causes of liver cancer are hepatitis B and C.
Therefore, it is recommended to get tested at a hospital for hepatitis infection.
If you have not been infected with hepatitis B and do not have hepatitis B antibodies, you may consider receiving the hepatitis B vaccine.
Generally, new university students undergo hematological and hepatitis screenings upon enrollment, so you can wait until then to get tested.
Sincerely, Dr.
Huang Jianling.

Reply Date: 2005/07/18

More Info

When considering whether you should get tested for cancer based on your family history, it's essential to understand the implications of hereditary cancer risks and the role of environmental factors. Family history can indeed play a significant role in your personal cancer risk, but it is not the sole determinant.
From the information you've provided, your family has a notable history of various cancers, including stomach cancer, blood cancer, and liver cancer. While having relatives with cancer can increase your risk, it’s important to note that many cancers are influenced by a combination of genetic predispositions and environmental factors. For instance, while certain cancers like breast and ovarian cancer have well-established hereditary links (often associated with mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes), other cancers may have less clear genetic connections.

In your case, the cancers mentioned (stomach cancer, blood cancer, and liver cancer) have different risk factors associated with them. For example, liver cancer is often linked to chronic infections with hepatitis B or C viruses, which are prevalent in certain populations. If you have concerns about hepatitis infection, it would be prudent to get tested for these viruses, as early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the risk of developing liver cancer.

Given your family history, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific situation. They may recommend genetic counseling, especially if there is a pattern of cancer that suggests a hereditary syndrome. Genetic counselors can help you understand your risks and the potential benefits of genetic testing.

In terms of screening, the recommendations can vary based on your age, sex, and specific family history. For example, if you are a woman with a family history of breast cancer, you may be advised to start mammograms earlier than the general population. Similarly, if there is a history of colorectal cancer in your family, you might be advised to begin screening colonoscopies at an earlier age than the standard recommendation of 45.

If you are concerned about your risk of cancer, here are some steps you can take:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: Schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or a specialist in genetics. They can assess your family history and recommend appropriate screenings.

2. Get Tested for Hepatitis: Since liver cancer is a concern in your family, testing for hepatitis B and C is a good starting point. If you are not infected, vaccination against hepatitis B may be recommended.

3. Screening Tests: Depending on your age and risk factors, your doctor may recommend specific screening tests. For example, if there is a history of colorectal cancer, you might need to start screening with a colonoscopy earlier than age 45.

4. Lifestyle Modifications: Regardless of family history, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your cancer risk. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol consumption.

5. Stay Informed: Keep track of any changes in your health and report them to your healthcare provider. Regular check-ups can help catch any potential issues early.

In summary, while your family history does suggest an increased risk for certain cancers, it is crucial to approach this with a comprehensive plan that includes professional medical advice, appropriate screenings, and lifestyle changes. Taking proactive steps can significantly impact your health outcomes.

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