Different Kinds Of Cancer To Watch For When Your Family Has A History With It

Cancer is one of the most devastating diseases that can affect a person and their loved ones. Unfortunately, some types of cancer can have a hereditary component, meaning that if it runs in your family, you might be at an increased risk of developing it yourself. If your family has a history of cancer, it's important to be aware of the different types of cancer that may be more likely to affect you. In this blog post, we'll outline some of the most common cancers that have a hereditary component and provide information on what you can do to stay healthy.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is one of the most well-known types of cancer and one that affects a significant number of women. If you have a family history of breast cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing it yourself. It's important to receive regular mammograms and perform regular self-examinations, especially if you have a family history of this cancer.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is another cancer that has a hereditary component, especially in families with a history of breast or ovarian cancer. Women with a strong family history of ovarian cancer may choose to undergo prophylactic surgery to remove their ovaries and fallopian tubes, which can greatly reduce their risk of developing the disease.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is another cancer that is known to have a hereditary component, especially in families with a history of colon or rectal cancer. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, it's important to start screening at a younger age than the general population. Your doctor may recommend colonoscopies starting at age 40 or earlier.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men and has a hereditary component. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, it's important to receive regular prostate exams starting at an earlier age than the general population. Your doctor may also recommend additional screening tests, such as a PSA blood test or a biopsy.

Melanoma

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that can run in families. If you have a family history of melanoma, it's important to be diligent about protecting your skin from the sun and receive regular skin exams from a dermatologist. You may also want to undergo genetic testing to determine if you have a hereditary risk for developing melanoma.

If your family has a history of cancer, it's important to be proactive about your health. Knowing which types of cancer you may be at an increased risk for can help you take steps to prevent or detect cancer early. Regular screenings, self-examinations, and genetic counseling can all be valuable tools in staying healthy. Make sure to discuss your family history with your doctor and work together to create a plan for monitoring your health and preventing the onset of cancer. Remember, early detection is key in treating and surviving cancer.