Ask The Expert 
Testing for your hereditary cancer risk is a powerful tool that can empower you to do early, or more frequent, screenings, and to have the knowledge to motivate lifestyle changes.
Jennifer Knowles, NFP-BC, Cancer Genetics and Prevention Clinic at the Cancer Care Institute, Rapid City
How does cancer develop, and what role do our genes play?
Cancer develops when changes called mutations occur in the genes that control how our cells grow and divide. Most cancers happen by chance, though some families carry inherited genetic changes that increase the likelihood of developing cancer. Knowing whether you carry one of these changes can be a powerful step toward protecting your health and the health of your loved ones.
What are hereditary cancer syndromes?
About 5–10% of all cancers are linked to inherited genetic mutations that are passed from one generation to the next. These are called hereditary cancer syndromes. People with these conditions face a higher lifetime risk of developing certain cancers, and often at younger ages than usually expected. For example, BRCA1 (BReast CAncer) and BRCA2 mutations are well-known for raising the risk of breast, ovarian, prostate and pancreatic cancers. Lynch syndrome is associated with a higher likelihood of colon, uterine, ovarian and other cancers. Li-Fraumeni syndrome, though rare, can be linked to multiple cancers including sarcomas, brain tumors and leukemia.
Who should consider genetic testing?
Anyone can choose to undergo genetic testing if they want to be proactive about understanding their cancer risk and overall health. Testing can be especially important if there are certain patterns in your family, such as multiple relatives with the same or related types of cancer, cancer diagnosed at unusually young ages, more than one type of cancer in the same person or rare cancers like male breast cancer. Even without a strong family history, many people pursue testing simply to gain clarity and peace of mind.
Why does genetic testing matter?
Genetic testing is more than just a lab result — it’s a tool for taking control. It can guide earlier or more frequent screenings, empower you with knowledge to make proactive lifestyle changes and provide useful information for family members who may also face increased risk. In short, it turns uncertainty into actionable information.
What happens if someone tests positive for a genetic mutation?
A positive result doesn’t mean cancer is inevitable. Instead, it allows you to take important steps with the support of your health care team. Depending on the mutation, your care may include earlier or more frequent screenings to detect cancer at its earliest stages, preventive medications or surgeries to reduce risk, and lifestyle changes such as improving diet, increasing exercise or quitting smoking. Another important step is sharing the results with relatives, who may also benefit from testing and proactive care.
How can a genetic provider help?
Although the process of genetic testing and interpreting results can feel overwhelming, genetic providers are there to guide you. They are trained professionals who help explain what your results mean, assess risks and support you in making informed choices for yourself and your family.
What is the main takeaway?
Genetic testing doesn’t predict the future. However, it can provide valuable insight into your health story. By understanding your genetic risk, you can work with your health care team to take proactive steps that put you in control. If cancer runs in your family — or if you simply want to be proactive about your health — consider starting a conversation with your doctor or a genetic provider. The knowledge you gain today could change your future, and your family’s, for the better.
Learn more about about the Cancer Genetics and Prevention Clinic by going to monument.health/cancergenetics.