How Can Genetic Testing Help in Cancer Prevention and Treatment?
Genetic testing can identify individuals with inherited mutations that increase their risk of cancer. This information can be used for:
- Risk assessment: Individuals with a high genetic risk can undergo more frequent and earlier screenings to detect cancer at an early stage. - Preventive measures: Options such as prophylactic surgeries, lifestyle changes, and chemoprevention can be considered to reduce cancer risk. - Personalized treatment: Knowledge of specific genetic mutations in a tumor can guide targeted therapies, making treatment more effective and reducing side effects.