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Did you know that cancer can run in families?
While most cancers aren’t inherited, about 10% are. Certain changes in your genes, called variants, can be passed down from your parents to you. These changes can make it more likely that you’ll get cancer.
“Knowing you have a family history of cancer can help doctors catch cancer early or even prevent it,” said Christine Garcia, MD, who leads Kaiser Permanente’s hereditary cancer program in Northern California.
Genetic testing is a powerful tool that helps doctors find people who are more likely to get cancer.
Dr. Garcia explains how genetic testing can help doctors and patients make better decisions about cancer prevention and care.
How does genetic testing improve cancer care?
If someone has cancer, we can test a sample of the tumor. Genetic information can help us provide more targeted treatments for specific kinds of cancer.
Genetic testing can also help find variants before cancer develops. If testing shows someone has a hereditary cancer, we can test their family members too, so they can take steps to protect their health.
For example, regular screening can help catch cancer early when it’s much easier to treat. Early detection can help people avoid invasive treatments and improve survival rates.
How does genetic testing for cancer work at Kaiser Permanente?
At Kaiser Permanente, genetic testing is part of our integrated care system.
Genetics specialists and cancer doctors work as a team to provide personalized care. They help guide treatment for cancer patients. And they recommend early screening and prevention options for people with hereditary risks.
Our genetic counselors are medical professionals trained to help you understand what your genetic test results mean for you and your relatives. If you need testing, a genetic counselor will help you and your family make informed decisions that are right for you.
How is genetic testing done?
Genetic testing is quite simple for patients. We use a small amount of blood or saliva, which we can get from a blood draw or cheek swab.
From a single sample, we can look for many variants that could be passed down through families.
Who should be tested?
The decision to be tested is based on your personal and family cancer history. Talk to your relatives about their medical conditions.
You may have an inherited cancer risk if you have:
- Several relatives with cancer, especially the same types of cancer
- A family member who developed cancer at a young age, especially in their 30s or 40s
- A relative with more than one type of cancer
If your family history suggests that cancer might run in your family, talk with your doctor. Genetic testing might be a good option for you or someone in your family.
Hear from our doctors how we’re advancing cancer care.
Learn more about cancer prevention and screening at Kaiser Permanente.