At birth we always compare the babies resemblances with father or mother. So we all know that we get specific features and characters from one of our parents. And this is possible with help of genetic information coded on to each of our cells in form of DNA which carry two pair of chromosomes, one pair from each parent.
Millions of cells in our body are constantly undergoing controlled cell division to replace old cells. An faulty transfer of information genetically during cell division leads to unstoppable cell division, thus lump formation. If such lump starts invading near and distant organs its labeled as Cancer. This faulty information transfer is known as mutation in the gene and this faulty information can be inherited or acquired.
The daughters are lucky to gets two similar pairs of genes, is which case the good gene will dominant and express itself. If there is an insult and the good gene stops functioning then there is a probability of defective gene expressing itself leading to cancer.
There are many hereditary cancers like Ovarian, Breast, Endometrial, Prostate, Colorectal, etc. associated with various syndromes like Lynch syndrome, Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
The probability of such hereditary cancer in Ovary is around 5-10%.
There are various sets of genes responsible for the cancer including BRCA1 and BRCA2, mutations in the TP53, PTEN, CDH1, etc., which can be identified by simple test on saliva or blood sample. Previously the genetic testing was costly and not easily available at all centers. But today we can get the genetic testing done in India with higher sensitivity and specificity and also with better cost effectiveness.
We do recommend Genetic counseling first to chart out family tree and mapping the corresponding first and second degree relative who are cancer patients. Testing is advisable there after.
For those who are already diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer may get benefit to predict response to chemotherapy and also help to take preventive measures for breast and other cancers. The Genetic testing will also benefits the Family Members by making them aware with probability of Ovarian, Breast and other cancers for screening and risk reducing measures.
For the high risk group (positive on genetic testing) we do recommended after completion of their family for risk reduction surgeries. As a caution, strict screening along with closely monitoring oneself, may benefit person at higher risk.
Couple of signs and symptoms one should be on a look out for:
