Genetic factors can influence cancer risk, and some inherited mutations raise the odds of developing certain tumors. Variants in genes passed down through families, most notably BRCA1 and BRCA2, are linked to higher chances of cancer. This point was highlighted by oncologist Pavel Koposov, MD, deputy director at the European Medical Center Institute of Oncology, in an interview for socialbites.ca.
In women, these genetic changes can increase the likelihood of breast and ovarian cancers, while in men they are associated with a heightened risk of prostate cancer. The doctor emphasized that understanding one’s family history is a practical step toward informed care.
A key challenge in oncology is that tumors often grow without clear signs in the early stages. By the time symptoms appear or vitality seems to return, cancers may already be advanced and have spread. This late onset complicates treatment and can lead to less favorable outcomes.
Therefore, for individuals with close relatives who have had cancer, genetic testing can clarify whether there is a hereditary predisposition to a similar disease. If such a predisposition exists, it should not provoke panic. Instead, it can guide proactive monitoring and informed decision-making about screening options and risk reduction strategies.
The doctor noted that a person cannot shield themselves from cancer completely. It remains impossible to predict with certainty what triggers a tumor or when it might occur. Even with inherited mutations, there is no guarantee that cancer will develop, underscoring the complexity of cancer risk across families.
In some families, the same mutation may appear across generations without every carrier developing cancer. For example, a grandmother, daughter, and granddaughter might share BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, yet only the grandmother and granddaughter may experience breast cancer while the daughter remains unaffected. This variability highlights that genetic risk interacts with other factors, including lifestyle and random biological events.
Advances in oncology continue to improve screening, early detection, and risk management. Clinicians increasingly offer genetic counseling and testing as part of comprehensive cancer care, helping patients understand their personal risk profiles and make informed choices about surveillance, preventive measures, and treatment options. Ongoing research aims to refine risk estimates and identify interventions that can lower the likelihood of cancer development in high-risk individuals. When appropriate, patients may discuss options such as enhanced imaging schedules, chemoprevention, or prophylactic procedures with their healthcare team. Marked scientific guidance emphasizes the value of tailored plans based on family history, mutation status, and individual circumstances, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. This approach helps patients in North America, including Canada and the United States, take proactive steps toward their health while reducing uncertainty for themselves and their families. (Citation: European Medical Center Institute of Oncology)