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Macmillan and Cancerbackup merged in 2008. Together we provide free, high quality information for people affected by cancer through our publications, website and phone service. Find out more|.
Find out how we produce our information|
This section is for anybody who is worried that cancer may run in their family. It's also for people who have been advised, or who have decided, to see a cancer genetics specialist or genetic counsellor.
If you don't have at least two relatives with the same type of cancer on the same side of your family, the information in this section is probably not relevant to you.
Information about what to do if you are worried about your own risk of cancer
Information about genes and their function
How cancer risk can be increased by inheriting 'cancer genes'
How genetic testing procedures for cancer work and what they involve
How to cope with a high genetic risk of cancer in your family
Get information about familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), which is a condition that can run in families
DNA analysis of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes for people with a family history of breast and/or ovarian cancer
Sources of information for the genetics section
Information about how common genetic causes are for cancer
How genes can affect cancer risk
A genetic consultation is a discussion with a person trained in genetics
Commonly asked questions about genetic tests
There are things you can do to reduce your risk of developing cancer.
Get information about a condition that can run in families called hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)
The outlook for the role of genetics in cancer
Get information about genetics and cancers of the bowel, breast, ovary and prostate
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.
Health & social care professionals section|
Our online tool may be helpful if you are concerned about a family history of breast or ovarian cancer.