Questions regarding cancer risk in men whose mothers have a history of cancer are understandable and warrant a deeper understanding of hereditary cancer. Hereditary cancer is a disease that can be passed down genetically from one generation to the next through specific gene mutations.
Genetic Cancer Risk in Men
Medical studies show that genetic or inherited factors are responsible for 5–10% of all cancer cases. A mother with a history of cancer—especially one linked to hereditary cancer syndromes—poses a higher risk of cancer development in her sons. Research indicates that individuals with a family history of cancer may have up to twice the risk of developing cancer compared to those without such a history.
Hereditary cancer occurs when gene mutations that cause cancer are inherited from a parent. It's estimated that 10–20% of all cancer cases are strongly associated with family history. Genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, and others can significantly increase the risk of various types of cancer—not only in women but also in men.
Types of Cancer at Risk
Men with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer have a higher risk of developing male breast cancer, although it remains rare. In addition, BRCA gene mutations can also increase the risk of prostate and pancreatic cancer in men. In both genders, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, caused by TP53 gene mutations, increases the risk of sarcoma, brain cancer, and breast cancer.
The Importance of Early Detection
Men with a family history of cancer are encouraged to undergo genetic counseling and early screening, given their genetic predisposition. Early identification through genetic testing can support long-term health planning and appropriate preventive action.
KALGen Innolab provides comprehensive hereditary cancer testing through KALSCREEN-16 and KALSCREEN-69, helping identify potential hereditary cancer risks within families. With advanced genomic technology, KALGen Innolab delivers accurate risk assessments to support optimal preventive health planning for you and your family.
Referances:
Nature Genetics - The genetics of hereditary cancer risk syndromes
IARC WHO Publications - Inherited genetic breast cancer susceptibility
