“I wish I had known sooner.”
Those six words are heartbreaking—and far too common when it comes to cancer. The word alone can trigger fear. But there’s something worse than fear: regret. Regret that you didn’t act early. Regret that you ignored signs. Regret that you never knew you were at risk in the first place.
What if we told you that cancer isn’t always random? That in many cases, your DNA might hold the early warning signs? And that you can do something about it?
Welcome to a conversation that could save a life — maybe your own.
What Is Cancer, Really?
Cancer happens when the body’s cells begin to grow uncontrollably. Instead of dying when they’re supposed to, these rogue cells multiply, often forming tumors or spreading throughout the body. There are over 100 types of cancer, and while some are influenced by lifestyle, many are linked to genetics.
In India, we often associate cancer with tobacco or pollution — and while those are major causes, the role of inherited genetic mutations is less talked about.
What Causes Cancer? The Genetics You Didn't Know You Had
Let’s bust a myth: not all cancer is bad luck. In fact, 10–15% of cancers are hereditary, passed down through generations like eye color or height. These inherited mutations increase your risk significantly.
One of the most well-known examples is the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, mutations in which drastically increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. There are dozens of other genetic syndromes — like Lynch syndrome, Li-Fraumeni, and others — linked to colon, uterine, pancreatic, prostate, and even blood cancers.
🩺 Dr. Suruchi Aggarwal, Clinical Geneticist:
“A family history of cancer is like a warning light. Genetic testing allows us to investigate it early and act before cancer does.”
Also Read: Understanding Genetic Testing for Cancer: What You Need to Know
Who Should Be Thinking About Their Cancer Risk?
You don’t need to be sick to be at risk. You need to be informed.
Here are signs you may need to explore genetic testing:
- More than one close relative with cancer
- Breast, ovarian, or colon cancer diagnosed before age 50 in your family
- Family history of multiple types of cancer
- A known genetic mutation in your family
- You or a male family member had breast cancer
- Ethnic background known for specific gene mutations
Even if you don’t check these boxes, your genes still matter. Genetics can influence how your body processes carcinogens, responds to medications, and more.
Early Detection Isn’t Just About Tests — It’s About Insight
Most cancers, when detected early, are highly treatable. But in India, more than 60% of cancers are diagnosed in late stages, when treatment becomes more complicated and survival rates drop sharply.
That’s where genetic testing and risk assessment play a transformative role. They don’t just find cancer — they predict it.
🩺 Dr. Prasad Narayanan, Oncologist at Cytecare Hospital:
“If you knew there was a silent risk hiding in your DNA, wouldn’t you want to find it before it found you?”
The Power of Genetic Testing: A Case That Saved a Life
Take the story of Riya (name changed), a 33-year-old from Bengaluru with a strong family history of breast cancer. She wasn’t sick, but her aunt and grandmother had been diagnosed before age 45. A genetic test revealed she carried a BRCA1 mutation.
Armed with this information, she began enhanced screening and lifestyle changes. A year later, a tiny tumor was detected during a routine MRI. It was caught early — and removed successfully.
“If I hadn’t taken that test, I wouldn’t have even gone for that MRI. I might not have caught it in time.” — Riya
This isn’t rare. These are the quiet victories of predictive medicine.
Know More: Hereditary Cancer Panel -Whole Exome based analysis covering genes for a different cancers
So, What Can You Do? Here’s Your Action Plan
1. Know Your Family History
Start asking questions. Document who had cancer, what kind, and at what age.
2. Talk to Your Doctor
If there’s a pattern, bring it up. Don’t assume it’s nothing.
3. Consider a Genetic Test
Especially if you meet any high-risk criteria. The process is simple — often just a saliva sample — and it's available in India.
Mapmygenome is one of India’s most trusted pioneers in personal genomics. With a wide portfolio of genetic tests, the company helps individuals uncover hidden health risks, make informed decisions, and take proactive steps—long before symptoms appear.
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Analyze inherited cancer risk across 17+ types
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Leverage 700,000+ genetic markers using advanced technology
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Receive personalized health insights and expert genetic counseling
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Take control of your health through early, actionable awareness
Anu Acharya, CEO of MapmyGenome:
“DNA is not your destiny — it’s your roadmap. Knowing your risk helps you change your outcome.”
Don't Wait for Symptoms
Why wait for cancer to knock before you open the door?
Ignoring your cancer risk doesn’t make it go away. Facing it — through knowledge, testing, and proactive care — gives you control. And control beats regret, every time.
So if you’ve read this far, you didn’t avoid this article. You’re brave. Now take the next brave step — find out your risk and act on it.
