Home › Health tips › Myth or fact
Myth: no cancer in my family means I am safe
Fact: most cancers are not passed down in families.
The facts
- Only about 5 to 10 in every 100 cancers are inherited
- Most come from changes during life: age, tobacco, alcohol, infections, weight
If cancer runs in your family
- Tell your doctor which relatives had it and at what age
- You may need checks earlier
For everyone
- Go for the free checks from age 30
- Avoid tobacco and alcohol
Sources
Information only, not medical advice. Always talk to your own doctor.