Hereditary cancers are cancers that are more likely to occur due to inherited genetic mutations passed down from parents to children. Inheriting a gene mutation does not guarantee the development of cancer, but it does increase the likelihood compared to those without a mutated gene.
A DNA test can help identify cancer-causing mutations in genes. For instance, having a specific mutation in the BRCA1 gene increases the genetic risk of developing breast cancer. This risk applies to males as well, as the mutation can cause male breast cancer. However, it is important to note that more than 80% of men are unaware of this risk. Moreover, this inherited genetic condition can be passed down to daughters, further increasing their genetic risk of breast cancer. Knowing your genetic risk empowers not only you but also your family to take preventive measures, such as early cancer screenings for those at higher genetic risk. Sharing your DNA results with loved ones can be beneficial, as increased risk in one family member suggests a potential heightened risk in others.
At Circle, we believe in empowering individuals to take control of their health by understanding their genetic blueprint. Through the use of next-generation sequencing technology, we analyze DNA samples to identify genetic risks for 36 cancers, including breast, ovarian, colorectal, lung, liver, pancreas, and more. Knowing your risk and taking advantage of early screening and detection can have obvious benefits. For many cancers, early detection can significantly increase survival rates to over 90%.