Hereditary predisposition
People often worry more about their health when a condition occurs in one of their parents or family members. This makes sense, because hereditary factors often play a role in the development of health problems. Human DNA consists of 23 chromosomes, each of which consists of many genes. Genes are passed on from generation to generation and are partly decisive for the health of each individual person.
How does heredity work?
Not every gene is equally strong. It is common for parents to be carriers of a gene but not to develop a disease themselves. Furthermore, the development of a disease is often a combination of genes and external factors, or a good dose of bad luck. The fact that parents carry a gene but do not develop a hereditary disease does not necessarily mean that the child is also protected. If one or both parents are carriers of a genetically transmitted disease (often they are not aware of this themselves), it is possible that the child will develop the disease. However, there are also diseases where the gene is so strong that the child is guaranteed to develop the same disease as the parent.
Preventive examination
When a disease such as breast cancer or cervical cancer occurs in the family, you can assume that descendants have an increased risk of the condition. How big the risk is, is often difficult to determine. Nevertheless, there are often reasons to proceed with preventive (genetic) testing. It is also wise to keep a close eye on the body yourself. For example, there are ways to check the breasts yourself for lumps. Many people sound the alarm more quickly with vague complaints, if it is known that a condition occurs in the family.
Knowledge and advice
Are you worried or do you have vague complaints that could be related to a hereditary condition? An appointment with the medical specialists at Women's Healthcare Center can provide clarity.
What can we do for you?
Women's Healthcare Center provides expert care and support for women. Our team of specialisten will do everything they can to help you get the right diagnosis and find the best treatment options.
