Inherited cancer syndromes

Inherited cancer syndromes are genetic conditions passed from parent to child that increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer. These syndromes result from inherited changes, or mutations, in specific genes that normally help repair DNA or control cell growth. Because of these inherited mutations, affected individuals have a higher likelihood of developing cancer at younger ages or multiple cancers over their lifetime. Examples include Lynch syndrome and BRCA-related breast and ovarian cancers. Identifying these syndromes helps with early screening, prevention, and personalized treatment, ultimately reducing the impact of cancer in affected families.