Hi there and thanks for the post

I am sorry to hear about the health issues you have alongside the concern about many of your family being affected by cancer.

When cancer is in the family, people may think that this increases their risk of getting cancer, but this isn't always the case. Although the genes we are given may influence our risk, this may not be by very much. No one is risk free and the risk of cancer increases for all of us as we get older.

Most cancers develop over someone's lifetime and not the result of an inherited gene that can cause cancer, these are unusual.

Genetic testing is only usually offered to people with a strong family history, as this predicts who is most likely to have inherited a cancer gene fault. If a cancer patient with a strong family history is diagnosed they are offered genetic testing. If they are found to have a gene fault then other close family members will also be offered genetic testing.

Some cancers can be increased with a family history, but this might not be by enough to warrant genetic testing or additional screening. This is something that your GP can advise you about so do discuss it with them when you have the chance. 

Please do get back to us if you have any more questions or give us a call us on 0808 800 4040. We are here from Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Best wishes

Naomi