What do the results of a biomarker test mean?
Why is genetic testing important for cancer patients?
For people who are already diagnosed with a cancer, results of genetic testing may help them make decisions about their treatment and understand their risk for other cancers. Genetic testing provides an opportunity for family members to learn about their own cancer risks.
What role does the study of genetics have in the study of cancer treatment?
Genetic testing is one way for cancer patients and their relatives to regain a sense of control over the horrible disease, and make a valuable contribution toward improving cancer detection, new cancer treatments and understanding cancer prevention methods.
How can genetic testing be beneficial?
Genetic testing is useful in many areas of medicine and can change the medical care you or your family member receives. For example, genetic testing can provide a diagnosis for a genetic condition such as Fragile X or information about your risk to develop cancer.
How long does cancer genetic testing take?
How long does it take to get genetic test results? Commercial labs often give faster results (usually within 2 to 4 weeks) than research centers (a minimum of 4 weeks, often longer).
Which type of cancer is hereditary?
Some cancers that can be hereditary are: Breast cancer. Colon cancer. Prostate cancer.
What causes a cell to become cancerous?
Cancer is unchecked cell growth. Mutations in genes can cause cancer by accelerating cell division rates or inhibiting normal controls on the system, such as cell cycle arrest or programmed cell death. As a mass of cancerous cells grows, it can develop into a tumor.
What is the downside of genetic testing?
Some disadvantages, or risks, that come from genetic testing can include: Testing may increase your stress and anxiety. Results in some cases may return inconclusive or uncertain. Negative impact on family and personal relationships.
Is it worth getting genetic testing?
Although genetic testing can provide important information for diagnosing, treating and preventing illness, there are limitations. For example, if you’re a healthy person, a positive result from genetic testing doesn’t always mean you will develop a disease.
What are the three types of genetic testing?
The following information describes the three main types of genetic testing: chromosome studies, DNA studies, and biochemical genetic studies. Tests for cancer susceptibility genes are usually done by DNA studies.
Are cancers preventable?
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, but many kinds of cancer can be prevented or caught early. Leading risk factors for preventable cancers are smoking, getting too much UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds, being overweight or having obesity, and drinking too much alcohol.
What counts as family history of cancer?
Any first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) was diagnosed before age 50 with ovarian, uterine, breast, or colorectal cancer. Two or more other relatives (grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces, or nephews) on either your mother’s or father’s side had ovarian, uterine, breast, or colorectal cancer.