Certain genes increase the risk of developing specific cancers. For example, 5% of all colorectal, breast, and ovarian cancers result from hereditary factors.
Advances in genetic testing now give us the ability to look at your DNA and see if you carry inherited changes called mutations that may raise your risk for certain cancers.
At Wake Family Medicine, we offer genetic testing for leading forms of cancer. Understanding your risk enables you to take proactive steps for prevention, early detection, and peace of mind.
Genetic testing analyzes your DNA to look for inherited mutations that can increase your chances of developing specific cancers.
Not everyone who carries a mutation will develop cancer, but knowing your status can help guide important health decisions. For example, if you have a higher genetic risk, you may benefit from earlier or more frequent screenings, lifestyle changes, or preventive treatments.
Genetic testing isn’t for everyone. We typically recommend it for individuals with specific personal or family health histories. You may want to consider genetic testing if:
If multiple relatives on the same side of the family have been diagnosed with cancers such as breast, ovarian, prostate, colon, or pancreatic cancer, especially at younger ages, testing can reveal whether you share an inherited mutation.
Cancers diagnosed before age 50 often suggest a possible genetic component. If you or a family member developed cancer at a younger age than typical, testing could provide answers.
Some inherited mutations increase the risk of more than one type of cancer. For example, mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes not only increase breast cancer risk but also ovarian, pancreatic, and prostate cancers.
People of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, for instance, have a higher chance of carrying BRCA mutations linked to breast and ovarian cancers.
Genetic mutations may be passed down through families. Testing can provide valuable information for future generations.
At Wake Family Medicine, we offer testing for genetic mutations that may increase your risk of the following diseases:
Breast cancer is often tied to BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, though other genes may also play a role.
Ovarian cancer gene mutations are frequently related to those that affect breast cancer risk.
Endometrial (womb lining) cancer is connected to Lynch syndrome, which can also cause colorectal cancer.
Higher prostate cancer risks may come from BRCA mutations or other inherited syndromes.
Pancreatic cancer is sometimes tied to BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome.
Colon cancer is linked to mutations in genes such as MLH1 or MSH2, which are often associated with Lynch syndrome. Depending on which genetic syndrome affects them, individuals have a 60% to 100% lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Certain inherited syndromes raise kidney cancer risk.
Testing panels often cover multiple genes linked to several other cancers, providing a broader view of your health risks.
Genetic testing provides knowledge that empowers you to take control of your health. Benefits include:
If you’re at higher risk, we may recommend earlier and/or more frequent screenings such as colonoscopies, mammograms, or MRIs.
In some cases, preventive medications or surgeries can reduce the risk of cancer.
Your results can guide your loved ones in making their own healthcare decisions.
If genetic tests don’t find any mutations, you may feel reassured about your risk level.
Genetic testing is simple and noninvasive. It usually involves a saliva sample or a blood draw. Results typically take a few weeks, and we take time to explain clearly what they mean for your health.
Importantly, a positive result doesn’t mean you will definitely get cancer; it just means you have a higher chance compared to the general population.
Deciding whether to undergo genetic testing is a personal choice. For many, the decision comes down to family history, personal health concerns, and the desire for more information. We discuss your risks with you, help you understand the potential benefits and limitations of testing, and guide you through the next steps based on your results.
Genetic testing can feel overwhelming, but it’s a powerful tool in preventive medicine. If you’re concerned about your family history of cancer or want to better understand your risks, genetic testing may be the right step for you.
By understanding your DNA blueprint, you can make informed choices, protect your health, and provide your family with valuable insights for the future. To learn more, contact Wake Family Medicine by phone or online.
