Health & Nutrition Health and Nutrition - February 2018.edcoan.ir | Page 25

Pass it along
Who has been diagnosed with
cancer in your family affects not
only you, but also your children.
For example, if your mother
died of breast or ovarian cancer,
which can sometimes result
from a mutation in the BRCA1
or BRCA2 genes, you might
not worry about it yourself
since these are woman-specific
cancers. But you may have
inherited a mutation that
is also associated with the
development of aggressive
prostate cancer, says Dr Rana.
And even if you remain cancer-
free, you could still pass along
that mutated gene to your
daughter, which puts her at a
higher risk for breast or ovarian
cancer. In fact, a 2011 study
found that 24% of women
with ovarian cancer had an
underlying mutation.
“That’s why it’s so important
to try to put together as
detailed a medical history
as possible. It’s not just for
you, but something you can
share with your children and
grandchildren,” says Dr Rana.
Genetic testing
Your family cancer history is
only the first step. A genetic
test can help clarify whether
you have one or more specific
genetic mutations.
Genetic testing involves
seeing a genetic counsellor
or other specialist who
assesses your family history
and explains the risks and
outcomes of testing, like
anxiety from inconclusive
results, or the need for closer
cancer surveillance if you have
a mutation. A simple blood or
saliva test looks for mutations
in a number of genes related
to cancer. You typically get the
results in about four weeks.
Years ago, genetic testing
was expensive, but it is now
more affordable and accessible.
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PREVENTION STRATEGIES
If you’re at high risk of cancer, a number of options may help you
catch it early or take steps to prevent it.
These may include:
■ Conventional (non-genetic) screenings and frequent checkups.
■ Surgical removal of organs that may develop cancer, such as
the breasts or ovaries. It’s not foolproof, though, and wouldn’t be
appropriate for everyone.
■ Stopping smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, getting regular
exercise and eating a healthy diet may help reduce your risk.
Think you’re too old to worry
about cancer? Think again.
Cancer, like some relatives, can
always show up unexpected.
“You can get diagnosed with
cancer late in life, so don’t think
you are home free if you reach a
certain age cancer-free,” says Dr
Rana. “Know your family history
and talk to your doctors about
your possible risk and strategies
for prevention.”
HEALTH & NUTRITION February 2018 25