When cancer appears in multiple generations of a family, it’s natural to wonder: Could cancer be hereditary?
About 5%–10% of cancers are linked to inherited genetic changes passed from parent to child. These changes can increase cancer risk, but they don’t mean a person will definitely develop cancer. Most cancers are not caused by inherited genetic changes. Learn more from the National Cancer Institute.
Cancer diagnosed at a young age, multiple relatives with the same or related cancers, or one person developing more than one type of cancer may signal a need to explore hereditary risk. However, family history is only one piece of the picture. Your personal health history, the types of cancer in your family, and the ages at diagnosis can all help your healthcare team assess your risk.
Start with your family history. Bag It Cancer’s My Companion Guidebook includes a Family History Form to help you organize important information about cancer in your family. Completing it can be a practical first step toward a more informed conversation with your healthcare team. If possible, ask relatives about their cancer diagnoses and the ages at which they were diagnosed. Even details that seem small may help identify patterns worth discussing.
If your family history raises concerns, ask your healthcare provider whether genetic counseling may be appropriate. A genetic counselor can help you understand your options, the potential benefits and limitations of genetic testing, and what results could mean for you and your family.
For more guidance, explore these trusted resources:
- National Cancer Institute: Learn about inherited cancer risk and genetic testing.
- FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered: Find hereditary cancer information, resources, and peer support.
- Find a Genetic Counselor: Explore options for connecting with a genetics professional.
Knowledge is a powerful tool for self-advocacy. Bag It Cancer is here to help you feel informed, prepared, and supported as you navigate your cancer journey. Understanding your family history may not provide every answer, but it can help you ask informed questions and take meaningful next steps.
Explore Bag It Cancer’s patient resources to learn more about tools that can help you navigate diagnosis, treatment, and beyond.
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