Skip the primary navigation if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Skip the main content if you do not want to read it as the next section.
Why are genetic tests carried out?
In genetics, normal body cells divide and multiply in a controlled way. Sometimes this process goes wrong, and faulty cells are created and spread in an uncontrolled way. This is when cancer can develop.
Genetic tests can be used to look for a possible predisposition to developing a disease like cancer as well as to confirm a suspected genetic mutation in an individual or family.
Cancer usually arises in a single cell. As the cancer develops, the cell appears to follow a series of distinct steps, each one controlled by a different gene or set of genes. Several types of genes have been identified as having a connection with cancer:
Oncogenes normally encourage cell growth, but when they mutate, they can give cells signals to keep on dividing.
Tumor-suppressor genes normally restrict cells from growing, but when they are missing or have a mutation, they allow cells to grow and divide uncontrollably. The inherited genes that can lead to a risk of breast and ovarian cancer, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, retinoblastoma, Wilms' tumor, and familial adenomatous polyposis are of this type.
Genes called DNA repair genes appear to trigger cancer - and perhaps other inherited disorders - not by affecting the way cells grow, but by failing to correct mistakes that happen as DNA copies itself. The genes that have been linked to hereditary colon cancer are of this type.
Tests to determine genetic susceptibility to cancer are not offered routinely.
The tests can raise challenging issues in families and for relationships. Inevitably there may be the prospect of medical choices to be made once you have the test results.
More information
If you are concerned, please speak to your GP who can discuss this with you and, if appropriate, refer to a specialist at Noble's Hospital for further advice.
Cancer Backup
has a comprehensive section about genes, cancer and genetic testing on their website for anybody who is worried that cancer might run in his or her family. It is also for people who have been advised, or who have decided, to see a cancer genetics specialist or genetic counsellor.
CancerHelp
if you would like to read more about the tests that are carried out for the breast cancer genes, there is a useful section on the website.
Breakthrough Breast Cancer
has created a website of information for those concerned about their family history of breast cancer
The Genetic Interest Group
has a website which aims to promote awareness and understanding of genetic disorders.
