Risk and Prevention - Byrd Cancer Education & Advocacy Foundation

Cancer Risk and Prevention

While there’s no guaranteed method to completely prevent cancer, you can lower your risk by adopting a healthy lifestyle. This includes making wise dietary choices, staying physically active, and abstaining from smoking.

At a Glance

It is usually not possible to know exactly why one person develops cancer and another doesn’t. But research has shown that certain risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing cancer..

Source: National Cancer Institute

What is a risk factor?

A risk factor is an element that increases the likelihood of developing a disease. Different cancers have their own specific risk factors. It’s important to note that having a risk factor doesn’t guarantee the development of cancer. Even if a person with a risk factor is diagnosed with cancer, there is no definitive way to prove that the risk factor directly caused it.

While some risk factors, such as age or genetic predispositions, are beyond one’s control, there are others that can be influenced. Managing risk factors like tobacco use, exposure to secondhand smoke, sun exposure, maintaining a healthy body weight, engaging in physical activity, moderating alcohol consumption, and adopting a nutritious diet can contribute to risk reduction. Additionally, certain viruses, as well as exposure to specific types of radiation or chemicals, can also influence risk.

Lifetime Risk of Developing or Dying From Cancer

Lifetime risk of cancer pertains to the probability that an individual has, throughout their entire lifespan (from birth to passing away), of receiving a cancer diagnosis or succumbing to cancer-related causes. These risk assessments serve as a means to gauge the prevalence of cancer across the United States.

Known and Probable Human Carcinogens

In general, the American Cancer Society does not determine if something causes cancer (that is, if it is a carcinogen). Instead, they rely on the determinations of other respected agencies, such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC, part of the World Health Organization) and the US National Toxicology Program (NTP).

Risk Factors for Cancer

Risk factors for cancer encompass exposure to chemicals or other substances, as well as specific behaviors. They also encompass elements beyond one’s control, such as age and family history. A familial precedent of certain cancers may indicate a potential inherited cancer syndrome.

What is the difference between absolute risk and relative risk?

Absolute risk and relative risk are two distinct calculations used by doctors and researchers to assess cancer risk. Understanding these measures can assist individuals in making informed healthcare and lifestyle decisions.

Absolute risk provides the likelihood of an average person developing cancer during a specific timeframe. For instance, the average lifetime risk of colorectal cancer is approximately 4.1%. This means that roughly 1 in 24 individuals will develop colorectal cancer in their lifetime.

However, absolute risk doesn’t provide personalized risk assessments for specific individuals or groups.

On the other hand, relative risk compares the likelihood of one group developing cancer with another group. For example, research indicates that individuals with diabetes have a 38% higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.

It’s important to note that this doesn’t imply a person with diabetes has a 38% chance of developing colorectal cancer in their lifetime. Rather, it signifies a 38% increase over the absolute risk (4.1%). This translates to an actual increase in risk of 1.6%, resulting in a lifetime risk of 5.7%.

To calculate the increase in absolute risk, you first determine what 38% of 4.1% is. Converting the percentages to decimals, you get: 0.38 x 0.041 = .016. Then, add the original absolute risk (4.1%) and the increased risk (1.6%) to arrive at the new lifetime risk of 5.7%.

Both absolute risk and relative risk are crucial when evaluating personal cancer risk. These metrics can guide decisions about cancer screening and lifestyle choices. When interpreting research findings reported in the news, ensure you have access to data regarding the increase in absolute risk, as most studies and news stories tend to report relative risk. This can sometimes exaggerate the perceived risk of developing cancer.

Always consult with your doctor about new research related to cancer risk and discuss your specific risk factors. Seek clarification on any unfamiliar terms. This will provide you with clear information about your cancer risk and enable your doctor to recommend an appropriate screening schedule or other healthcare decisions. Your healthcare team can also offer guidance on adopting healthy habits, such as smoking cessation, regular exercise, and a balanced diet.

What are common cancer risk factors?

Common cancer risk factors encompass various elements that can elevate an individual’s risk of developing cancer. It’s important to note that most risk factors do not directly cause cancer. Having a risk factor does not guarantee the development of cancer, and some individuals with multiple risk factors may never develop the disease, while others with no apparent risk factors might.

Understanding your risk factors and discussing them with your healthcare team empowers you to make informed medical and lifestyle choices for better health. Additionally, this information helps your healthcare team determine if genetic testing and counseling are necessary.

Source: Cancer.Net

Understanding Genetic Testing for Cancer Risk

What is genetic testing?

Genetic testing involves conducting medical tests to identify specific mutations or alterations in a person’s genes. There are various types of genetic tests available, with ongoing developments in this field.

In the context of cancer, genetic testing is primarily employed to detect gene alterations associated with the disease.

Is cancer a genetic disease?

Yes, cancer can be considered a genetic disease. It arises from changes or mutations in the genes of our cells, which can disrupt normal cell behavior, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumors. These genetic alterations can be inherited (passed down through generations) or acquired during a person’s lifetime due to various factors like environmental exposures, lifestyle choices, or spontaneous mutations.

However, it’s important to note that not all cancers are directly caused by genetic mutations. Some cancers are predominantly influenced by external factors, such as exposure to carcinogens or infections. Overall, the development of cancer is a complex interplay between genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Is cancer hereditary?

It’s important to note that not all cancers are hereditary. The majority of cancers are sporadic, meaning they occur due to a combination of genetic mutations acquired during a person’s lifetime, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices.

If there is a family history of certain types of cancer, genetic counseling and testing may be recommended to assess the risk and guide appropriate healthcare decisions. Remember, having a family history of cancer does not guarantee that an individual will develop cancer, but it may indicate an increased risk that warrants monitoring or preventive measures.

Should I get genetic testing for cancer risk?

The decision to undergo genetic testing for cancer risk is a highly personal one and should be based on careful consideration of various factors. Here are some points to consider:

Family History: If you have a significant family history of certain types of cancer, especially at a young age or in multiple family members, it may indicate an increased risk that could be due to an inherited genetic mutation.
Specific Gene Mutations: Some known genetic mutations, like BRCA1 and BRCA2, are associated with a higher risk of breast and ovarian cancers. If there is a known mutation in your family, testing may be recommended.
Informed Decision: It’s crucial to understand the implications of genetic testing, including the potential emotional, psychological, and medical consequences of the results.
Access to Counseling: Genetic counseling is an important component of the testing process. A genetic counselor can help you understand the implications of the results and provide guidance on next steps.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider or a genetic counselor who can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and concerns. They can help you weigh the pros and cons and make an informed decision that aligns with your individual circumstances and preferences.

Learn More About The Genetics of Cancer

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What is a Carcinogen?

A carcinogen is a substance, agent, or exposure that has the potential to cause cancer in living organisms. These can be chemicals, physical agents (such as radiation), biological agents, or certain behaviors. Carcinogens have the ability to alter the genetic material (DNA) within cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and the development of cancerous tumors. It’s important to note that not all exposure to carcinogens will necessarily lead to cancer, as factors like dosage and duration of exposure also play a role.

Genetics and Cancer Risk

While specific types of cancer can be hereditary, the majority are not directly attributed to our inherited genes. Instead, most cancers arise from alterations in genes that occur within a single cell over the course of a person’s lifetime.

How to Lower Your Risk

Lowering your risk of cancer is a powerful investment in your long-term health and well-being. By adopting these proactive strategies, you’re taking crucial steps towards prevention. Remember, small changes can have a big impact on reducing your risk and promoting a healthier, cancer-free future. Take charge of your health today!