A Cancer in the Family

A Cancer in the Family: Take Control of Your Genetic Inheritance by Theodora Ross Summary: Oncologist and cancer gene hunter Theo Ross delivers the first authoritative, go-to for people facing a genetic predisposition for cancer   There are 13 million people with cancer in the United States, and it’s estimated that about 1.3 million of these cases are hereditary. Yet despite advanced training in cancer genetics and years of practicing medicine, Dr. Theo Ross was never certain whether the history of cancers in her family was simple bad luck or a sign that they were carriers of a cancer-causing genetic mutation. Then she was diagnosed with melanoma, and for someone with a dark complexion, melanoma made no sense. It turned out there was a genetic factor at work. Using her own family’s story, the latest science of cancer genetics, and her experience as a practicing physician, Ross shows readers how to spot the patterns of inherited cancer, how to get tested for cancer-causing genes, and what to do if you have one. With a foreword by Siddartha Mukherjee, prize winning author of The Emperor of All Maladies, this will be the first authoritative, go-to for people facing inherited cancer, this book empowers readers to face their genetic heritage without fear and to make decisions that will keep them and their families healthy. Angie’s comments: This is a great book for anyone who suspects or who knows that their family has a genetic risk for cancer. I especially liked Ross’s section on talking to other family members, which took into consideration that family members aren’t always on the best terms with each other and some people may be more likely to discuss cancer while others are more reluctant. There is also some summaries of various types of inherited cancer risk. Recommended for anyone who suspects or knows about a genetic cancer risk in their family. Request this item