Reasons To Opt For Genetic Testing If Cancer Runs In Your Family
Whatever the reason for the rise of cancer, most people can agree that catching this disease early will be the best shot for their wellbeing. Nonetheless, not many individuals consider getting their genes tested, either thinking that they are not at risk or assuming that it is not worth the cost. The reality is that these tests could be the difference between you catching cancer or it becoming fatal. Read on for a few reasons why you should opt for genetic screening.
Genetic screening allows you to take proactive measures
One thing that you need to know about cancer is that a percentage of mutations that you inherit are what increase your chances of acquiring this disease. Therefore, even if you have not yet developed cancer, getting a genetic screening allows you to discover if you are at risk of being at the threat of hereditary cancers. This knowledge is not for nought. Knowing your risk helps you and your doctor develop a proactive plan on how best to avoid the mutation from developing into cancer.
Genetic screening gives you peace of mind
Knowing that a family member passed away from cancer, particularly a close relative such as your parent, can weigh heavy on your mind. Every time you get a strange growth on your skin or feel unwell, you could suffer from anxiety wondering if you finally have cancer, and it is only a matter of receiving your lab tests. These negative thoughts can harm your overall wellbeing since stress increases the cortisol levels in your blood, which in turn will raise your heart rate and increase your blood pressure. For the sake of your wellness, it is best to get your genetic screening so that you know once and for all whether you are at risk. Furthermore, once you know, you then have the opportunity to make all the necessary changes that will protect your health.
Genetic screening helps plan the future of your foetus
One crucial reason why you should choose genetic screening while pregnant is so that you get the chance to plan the life of your child once it is born. Some genetic mutations will pass on to the child, and if you are unaware of them, your child could be at risk of cancer early on in their life. With genetic screening, your doctor gets to learn of these mutations at a very early stage, and you get the chance to plan to how best to manage the disease in their future.
