Is Cancer an Inherited Disease?

Is Cancer an Inherited Disease?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
QUESTION: In the last three years, I have lost two brothers and a sister to
one form of cancer or another. Although I am not sure, I believe my father
died from cancer as a young man. It looks like the odds are stacking up
against me if cancer is an inherited disease. Is it?
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANSWER: It appears likely according to some research. However, don't panic
and live the rest of your life constantly fearful that you are going to
develop cancer. A great deal of scientific progress is being made these days
in preventing, diagnosing, and treating cancer.
In your case, one of the most important things that you can do is to see
your doctor--one that you trust and can talk with easily--regularly.
Your physician will discuss your family's medical history thoroughly. It
is highly important that you tell the doctor all details about your family and
yourself, and that you follow the doctor's directions PRECISELY.
With knowledge that the possibility of hereditary cancer exists, your
physician can give special attention during regular exams to those organs that
may be most vulnerable. There are several procedures that may be indicated,
such as colonoscopy, that will search out any new growths in your large
intestines (such as polyps), and allow treatment before any cancer can get a
foothold. Though there is some discussion about the value of yearly or
routine physical examinations, they are most important in your case. Good
health should become your byword, with attention to diet and exercise and the
knowledge that your best defense is one that allows for early detection and
treatment. With all these positive steps taken, you probably will live a
longer and healthier life than many of your associates and friends, who are
not as attentive to their health needs.