Is Cancer Genetic?

You might be surprised to learn that cancer tops the charts as one of the most common human genetic diseases.

DNA mutations are responsible for a cell’s transformation from a normal cell to one carrying a malignant form of cancer.  

How does it work exactly? The cells in your body actively work to divide and reproduce in a specific and coordinated manner.

An important part of cell division is DNA replication. This is the process in which the cell makes an identical copy of its genome before dividing it. 

Mutations in DNA usually take place during the DNA replication process. Your body works to repair mutations, but sometimes, they can slip through the cracks.

These mutations can then go on to lead to tumors and cancer. Mutations can grow over the years before a cell becomes cancerous.

The Cycle Of Cancer

Your body is usually very good at regulating the rate and timing of cell division.

However, if the genes tasked with regulating your cell division cycle become mutated, then the regulation is thrown into a kind of chaos.

This causes uncontrolled cell division, which is one of the most obvious signs of cancer.

Here’s how the cancer cycle works: 

1. A vicious cycle starts the moment cells begin to multiply and become uncontrollable
2. These cells eventually will form a tumor in a specific area such as the lung or breast tissue 
3. As the tumor continues to grow, it’ll need more nutrients from the body. In order to keep growing, the tumor will then develop a blood vessel network. This process is known as angiogenesis 
4. Once the tumor has a blood vessel network, the cancer cells will migrate around the body through the bloodstream or the lymphatic system. Otherwise known as metastasis, this is when the cancer cells have developed the ability to migrate

Inheriting Predispositions

We inherit genes from both of our parents. If you inherit certain mutations from your parents, then it’s possible to be born with a predisposition to cancer. Why does this happen? It goes back to the idea of regulation of cell division. 

The mutations that you inherit typically affect the genes that are responsible for DNA repair and regulation.

Typically, individuals with predispositions to cancer are diagnosed at a younger age than those who develop it over the course of their life. 

Thanks to modern technology and the availability of health DNA tests, it’s possible to get tested for predispositions for certain diseases. Seek out a DNA testing company that specializes in genetic testing and predispositions to cancer. 

When armed with the right information, you can take important steps to seek out the proper health professionals or make any necessary lifestyle changes. 

Environmental And Lifestyle Implications

Cancer isn’t only genetic. Cancer is an extremely complex disease that can arise from several sources such as the environment and your lifestyle.

One of the most obvious examples of a lifestyle implication that leads to cancer is tobacco usage. The exposure to the carcinogens in cigarettes is linked to a number of different types of cancer including lung cancer, mouth cancer, and throat cancer. 

Certain environmental factors can also lead to cancer in individuals. This might include exposure to radiation, UV light, and chemicals. Exposure to the sun, for example, can cause certain types of cancer like basal cell and melanoma. 

Some environmental factors are more difficult to avoid. Oftentimes, these cancer-causing factors exist in the air, as well as the water we drink and the food we eat. Sometimes, cancer-causing agents might be part of the materials we need to use to perform our jobs. 

While that’s a frightening concept, the connection between cancer and the environment is a complex issue. Research is ongoing and the effect on individuals can vary. 

Conclusion

Cancer is a disease that affects millions of people a year. It’s a good idea to educate yourself and be aware of the various factors that can cause cancer.

Arming yourself with knowledge can help you to feel empowered as you take control of your choices and make health a top priority. 

If you want to take your cancer research further, try seeking out a DNA test that looks specifically at testing for predispositions to cancer.

This information can lead you to take life-saving measures, or simply give you peace of mind.

 It’s also a valuable investment for other family members and any children you may have. Above all, take steps to lead a healthy lifestyle and always consult a doctor with your specific questions or concerns.