Updated:
February 16, 2023
Published:
May 17, 2021
Do you have a close relative who’s had cancer? If you do, it's important to learn more about the types of cancer they faced and share that information with your doctor. There are many factors that increase your overall risk for cancer and family history is one of them. We're looking at the data to help you better understand the link between genetics and cancer risk and whether genetic testing may make sense for you.
Family History and Cancer Risk
We’ve known for some time that if a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, child) has a cancer such as breast or colon cancer, your risk of developing that cancer increases.
A large study of 23,000 people from Europe, published in the Annals of Oncology expanded our knowledge, indicating there is an association between your family’s history of cancer and your chances of developing either the same or a different cancer. Here's what the researchers discovered:
- Women with a family history of colorectal cancer had an increased risk of breast cancer.
- People with a first-degree relative who had cancer of the larynx (voice box) had an increased risk of oral and pharyngeal cancer.
- People with a first-degree relative who had oral or pharyngeal cancer had an increased risk of cancer of the esophagus.
- People with a first-degree relative who had breast cancer had an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
- Men with a first-degree relative who had bladder cancer had an increased risk of prostate cancer.
The researchers examined 12,000 cases of cancer in 13 parts of the body and matched them to control cases of 11,000 people without cancer. They collected information on any cancer in the family, plus data on health and lifestyle factors, such as tobacco and alcohol use, that can also influence cancer risk.
The study’s authors say the results indicate genetic factors have a role in multiple cancers, meaning that inheriting a particular gene may increase your chances of getting several types of cancer. That knowledge may help your doctor talk to you about the screenings you may need and whether genetic counseling is appropriate. The Ann B. Barshinger Cancer Institute has a robust genetic testing program.
Genetics Are Just One Cancer Risk Factor
If this all sounds a bit discouraging, it shouldn’t be. Remember, the study just found a link between a family history of cancer and your own risk—it didn’t find a cause-and-effect. You can’t control your genes, but you can use that information to help you remain healthy.
People get cancer for many reasons other than genes, and a family history doesn’t doom you to cancer. In fact, the majority of cancers can be linked to environmental factors—smoking, drinking to excess, eating a poor diet, and failing to lead an active lifestyle—all of which you can control. Knowing your genetic history is but one piece of the puzzle in preventing cancer.