What is the significance of genetic testing in cancer diagnosis?
Genetic testing can identify specific mutations that may drive the growth of certain cancers. Tests like BRCA1 and BRCA2 for breast and ovarian cancer, or KRAS for colorectal cancer, can help in:
- Risk Assessment: Identifying individuals at higher risk. - Targeted Therapies: Guiding the use of therapies that target specific genetic mutations. - Prognosis: Providing information on the likely course of the disease.