Inherited cancer fear ‘unfounded’ - UK poll
People worry unnecessarily about cancer in their family because they do not realise only a small number of cancers are hereditary, UK cancer information charity Cancerbackup has found.
The poll found 91% of people falsely believe that if a family member has had cancer, they are at greater personal risk of the disease. In fact, the likelihood of an increased risk is small, as nine out of ten cancers appear by chance.
The poll of over 1,000 people was conducted through the Genes Reunited website, found that 25% of people thought that between half or all cancers are inherited. Over 74% wrongly thought that if several members of their family have had different types of cancer, it means that there is a strong chance of an inherited genetic link in the family.
It’s all about a healthy lifestyle
Dr Andrea Pithers, Cancerbackup genetic information manager, said: “Worrying about cancer can be very debilitating and it is sad that people are not aware of the reality, that very few cancers are caused by a known inherited genetic link.
“At the same time people should know about how they can lower their risk with things they can actually change, like eating a healthy diet and exercise.”
I agree with this poll to a certain extent - the chances of carrying the BRCA breast cancer genes is small. However, we need to be sensible about our genuine cancer worries and anxieties and get regularly checked up for any changes to the breast. I bet that not many people regularly self examine their breasts, me included … but it is the cheapest and most effective form of detecting any lumps or breast changes. Did you know that 80% of lumps/changes are detected either by the individual or their partner? Food for thought!
Penny
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POSTED IN: Genealogy and DNA, General Genetics and Health, Genetic Engineering, Genetic Future, Genetic Ingenuity, Genetic Testing, Genetics Blogging, Genetics and Health Polls
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