Genetic test

What it is?

Many mutations behind hereditary cancer can now be identified with a genetic test. 

This is because in the last few decades scientists have identified several genes that, once mutated, increase the chance of familial cancer.  With genetic tests it is possible to know if your family carries any of these mutations.

The genes are different according to the type of hereditary cancer.  In breast cancer, the most common mutations are those affecting the BRCA genes (BReast CAncer genes).  Colorectal cancer, on the other hand, is commonly linked to mutations in the genes MLH1, MSH2, MSH6 (which causes Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer, HNPCC or Lynch syndrome), APC (which causes Familial adenomatous polyposis or FAP) e MYH (which causes MYH-associated polyposis or MAP).

To discover the mutation that affects your family allows to:

  • Identify relatives carrying the mutation, 
  • Calculate your personal risk of cancer, 
  • Put in place the most adequate measures for prevention and surveillance of the disease
next close
Know… the leaflets on the side effects of breast cancer therapies: how to manage problems, such as nausea and vomiting, or hair loss. (see)
Know… the interactive "familial history", allows the construction of a graphic with the history of breast cancer in your family. (see)
Know… more about cancer biology: what is a mutation and what promotes these changes in cells DNA? (see)
Know… What is a triple negative cancer? Drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer? What is the anatomy of the breast? (see)
Know… what you know about familial breast cancer: complete our 7-question "expert " quiz. (see)
Know… more about sporadic breast cancer, and test your knowledge using our 7-question quiz. (see)
Know… the particularities of breast cancer in man: test your knowledge in our 7-question quiz (see)