Genetics??

Question

On my mothers side of the family, ie, her mother, an aunt & uncle have all died with cancer. the types were lung, stomach, tumour.& it has got me thinking, i mean,

Does it run through families?
Is there any screening tests to check what the chances are of myself, from ever developing it.?

Any information will be much appreciated, thank you.

Answer 1

Genetics tells us that 50% of our genes comes from our father and mother including their lineage. So, it not impossible if you also have certain diseases or physical attributes coming from your aunt or uncles or even great grandmother.

There is a newborn screen test which determines certain diseases or malfunctions that a baby may suffer. These screen tests are conducted in the first 6 months after birth. You can check you OB-Gyne or Pediatrician for the details of each of these tests. They may cost a little high but it sure does ensure proper growth and functiuoning of your baby.

Back to genetics, for example, in my father's side, all first born are migraine sufferers. I dont know why this is so, but that is what is common to us in my father's side. So, just to be sure, it is best to see your doctor regularly particulary if you have these kinds of diseases in your family line.

Answer 2

You need to speak with your doctor about this. Tell him/her your concerns, pointing out the different types of cancer experienced by different members of your family.

Certain types of cancer, reputedly, do run in families, but you've mentioned different types of cancer, so there probably isn't a genetic link there. If your doctor has suspicions s/he could always refer you to a genetic counsellor.