Posted 5 days ago
National Cancer Prevention Month: How Knowing Your Genetics Can Help You Take Action
When we think about cancer prevention, diet, exercise, and routine screenings often come to mind. But for some individuals and families, genetics plays an important role in cancer risk. During National Cancer Prevention Month, it’s a good time to understand how hereditary cancer risk can support earlier detection, personalized screening, and informed decision-making.
Most cancers develop due to a combination of aging, environmental factors, and lifestyle influences. However, about 10% of cancers are linked to an inherited genetic change that leads to an increased risk of developing certain cancer over a lifetime.
Common hereditary cancer syndromes are associated with higher risks for cancers such as:
-Breast and ovarian cancer
-Colon and uterine cancer
-Prostate cancer
-Pancreatic cancer
Knowing whether you carry one of these inherited gene changes can help tailor a prevention and screening plan that is personalized to your risk.
Some well-known genes include BRCA1, BRCA2, Lynch syndrome genes, PALB2, CHEK2, and ATM, among others. Having one of these mutations does not mean cancer is inevitable. Instead, it provides valuable information that can guide proactive care.
The Role of Genetic Counselors in Cancer Prevention
Genetic counselors are healthcare professionals trained to help people understand genetic risk in a clear, supportive way. During a genetic counseling visit, they can:
-Review your personal and family medical history
-Assess whether genetic testing may be appropriate
-Explain testing options and possible outcomes
-Help interpret results and what they mean for cancer prevention
-Discuss next steps, such as screening or risk-reducing strategies
For individuals with inherited cancer risk, genetic information can lead to:
-Earlier or more frequent cancer screenings
-Personalized screening schedules
-Preventive surgeries options
-Improved awareness for family members who may also be at risk
For others, testing may show no inherited risk, allowing them to follow standard screening guidelines with confidence.
National Cancer Prevention Month reminds us that cancer prevention isn’t one-size-fits-all. Understanding your genetics can add an important layer to your overall health plan—alongside healthy habits and routine medical care.
Cassidy Pedraza, MS, CGC
Cassidy joined Ironwood Cancer Center and Research Centers in February 2025. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in psychology from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and her Master of Science in Genetic Counseling from Arizona State University. During her training at Arizona State, she completed several clinical rotations at various institutions including Banner, Mayo Clinic, Ironwood Cancer Center, and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. She is a member of the National Society of Genetic Counselors. Her interests in genetic counseling include cancer genetics and improving health care access. Outside of work, Cassidy enjoys traveling, spending time with her friends and family, and trying new restaurants.
Please ask your Ironwood Cancer & Research Centers doctor for a referral to see our genetic counselor.