How to get genetic testing for hereditary cancer risk
Between 5% and 10% of cancers are hereditary. This means that the cancer is caused by a change in your genes called a genetic mutation.
Mutations are identified through genetic testing. If you’re diagnosed with cancer and genetic testing shows that your cancer is caused by a hereditary mutation, it can affect your treatment options.
If you’re not a cancer patient, finding out you have a genetic mutation can help you take...
Triple-negative breast cancer survivor: MD Anderson inspired me to resume triathlons
Before I retired from teaching in May 2014, I was very active as a soccer and volleyball coach. I’d do push-up competitions alongside my junior...
Is cancer hereditary?
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer, you might be wondering how and why you got it.
Was it something that happened spontaneously?...
Is stomach cancer hereditary?
Hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC) is a rare, serious genetic condition that increases the risk of developing stomach cancer. Despite its name, HDGC is a condition rather than a type of cancer itself. It’s caused by an inherited gene mutation and greatly increases the chances of developing diffuse gastric cancer.
Unlike other forms of stomach cancer, diffuse gastric cancer spreads in a way that makes it difficult to detect...
Young adult cancer pre-vivor: Why I had my stomach removed at age 25
Most people don’t realize you can live quite comfortably without a stomach. But I found that out first-hand in 2020, after learning I carry...
Triple-negative breast cancer survivor: Why I chose a clinical trial at MD Anderson
Cancer runs very strongly on one side of my family. Several members have had either breast cancer or ovarian cancer. Two tested positive for...
6 breast cancer myths you shouldn’t believe
Can wearing underwire bras cause breast cancer? What about using antiperspirants containing aluminum or eating foods made with soybeans? ...
Stage IV lung cancer survivor: Why you should start your treatment at MD Anderson
After watching my grandmother die with emphysema, I resolved never to smoke. So, when I was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer — and told...
Stage III ovarian cancer survivor: Don’t ignore your symptoms
When I was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer in July 2023, it hit me like a thunderbolt. Ovarian cancer doesn’t run in my family. But...
Renal medullary carcinoma, sickle cell trait and high-intensity exercise: What’s the connection?
Very few people will be diagnosed with renal medullary carcinoma this year. But of those who are, about 60% will be young Black men who carry...