When most people think about cancer, they think of bad luck, lifestyle choices, or something that “just happens.” Very few stop to consider that in some cases, cancer can actually be inherited. That means it can run in families, passed down through genes from parents to children. While inherited cancers make up a smaller percentage of total cancer cases, the impact can be huge, especially when they show up earlier in life or affect multiple family members across generations.
"Cancer itself can’t be passed down from parents to children. And genetic changes in tumor cells can’t be passed down. But a genetic change that increases the risk of cancer can be passed down (inherited) if it is present in a parent's egg or sperm cells," explains the US National Cancer Institute. "Up to 10% of all cancers may be caused by inherited genetic changes. Inheriting a cancer-related genetic change doesn’t mean you will definitely get cancer. It means that your risk of getting cancer is increased," it adds.
So why don’t more people know about inherited cancer? One big reason is that it’s simply not talked about enough. Family health history isn’t always an easy conversation, and many people don’t connect the dots when a relative had cancer years ago. There’s also a common belief that if you live healthy, you’re completely safe, which isn’t always true when genetics are involved. Add to that confusing medical terms and limited awareness about genetic testing, and it’s easy to see how this topic gets overlooked.
There’s a growing need to talk more openly about inherited cancer and not in medical jargon that most people tune out. As Dr. Vivek Sukumar, GI and Hepatobiliary Pancreatic Surgeon at SSO Cancer Hospital, points out, while most cancers are linked to lifestyle and environmental factors, about 5 to 10 percent are caused by inherited genetic mutations. That number may sound small, but for the families affected, the risk is very real. Knowing about hereditary cancers and what can be done early gives people a chance to act before cancer does.
Dr. Sukumar tells TOI Health that cancers of the breast, ovary, colon, prostate, and skin are among the most commonly linked to inherited genetic changes. And often, these cancers appear earlier in life or show up in multiple family members, which is usually the first red flag.
Breast cancer
Breast cancer is one of the most well-known hereditary cancers, largely because of BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations.
“Women who carry these mutations don’t just have a slightly higher risk, their lifetime risk can go up to 60–80 percent, compared to about 12 percent in the general population. Other gene mutations like TP53, PTEN, and PALB2 can also raise risk,” says Dr Sukumar.
He suggests, women with these mutations, waiting until middle age for screening isn’t an option. Surveillance should start in the mid-20s, with MRIs first and mammograms added later. Regular self-checks and clinical exams matter too.
“And yes, lifestyle still plays a role, maintaining a healthy weight and limiting alcohol can help lower overall risk,” the expert recommends.
Ovarian cancer
The doctor says inherited ovarian cancer is also linked to BRCA mutations and Lynch syndrome.
“What makes ovarian cancer especially dangerous is that it’s often detected late, when symptoms are vague or easy to dismiss. Women at high genetic risk are usually advised to start monitoring earlier, sometimes in their late 20s or early 30s. This can include pelvic exams, imaging, and blood tests. Certain oral contraceptives have also been shown to reduce risk,” he says, adding that in some cases, once childbearing is complete, doctors may recommend preventive surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes. It’s a big decision, but for many, it’s life-saving
Colorectal cancer
When colorectal cancer runs in families, Lynch syndrome and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) are often the reason, says Dr Sukumar. “These conditions can cause cancer to develop much earlier than expected, sometimes even in the teens or early adulthood. For people with these genetic risks, colonoscopies start far earlier than they do for the general population and happen more often. Doctors focus on finding and removing precancerous polyps before they turn dangerous. Diet and exercise still matter here too. More fibre, less processed meat, and staying active can all help reduce risk,” he shares about one of the growing types of cancer.
Prostate cancer
Inherited prostate cancer doesn’t get talked about enough, even though certain gene mutations can double or even triple a man’s risk, warns the expert, especially to those with close relatives diagnosed at a young age.
“Screening for high-risk men usually starts earlier, sometimes around 40, or even earlier depending on family history. Keeping weight in check and eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can also make a difference over time,” he recommends.
Melanoma
“Skin cancer, particularly melanoma, can also run in families. Mutations like CDKN2A are often involved, and multiple family members may be affected at a younger age,” shares Dr Sukumar. He recommends regular full-body skin check, along with strict sun protection, noticing changes in moles early, shape, color, size, or behavior.
“Inherited cancer doesn’t mean cancer is inevitable. It means the body is sending a warning earlier than usual. And when people listen to that warning, they give themselves a real chance to stay ahead of the disease,” suggests Dr Sukumar.
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