Cancer and heart diseases
Some types of cancer and heart diseases may be associated with an inherited risk. If close relatives have had breast cancer, skin cancer or cancer of the intestines, your risk of contracting these types of cancer may be increased. This also applies to cardiovascular diseases.
Breast cancer
General symptoms
Breast self-examination - See & feel
It would be a good idea to examine your breasts regularly. That way, it would be easier early to detect any changes to your breast. If changes occur, visit your GP.
See
Feel
Inherited risk
Only 5-10% of breast cancer cases are rooted in genetics. Despite the relatively low percentages, it is still important to remember that the risk is higher, if a close relative has had breast cancer. The risk depends on your age and family history. If your family has had several cases of breast cancer or a relative has had cancer of the breast and the ovaries, contact your GP for advice.
Cancer of the colon
General symptoms
The typical symptoms of cancer of the colon are bleeding from the rectum and changed bowel movements. Changed bowel movements are most often permanently increased stool and/or loose stools for at least six weeks. About 85% of the cases are found after the age of 60. If you experience such symptoms, you should immediately contact your GP.
| Your situation |
Advice |
More than two first-degree relatives with cancer of the colon.
|
Screening should start at age 20-25.
Colonoscopy should be performed every second year. |
| Two first-degree relatives with cancer of the colon. |
Screening should start at an age corresponding to 10 years before the youngest relative was found to have colon cancer.
Colonoscopy should be performed at 2-5-year intervals. |
| A first-degree relative med cancer of the colon found before the age of 45. |
Screening should start at an age corresponding to 10 years before the relative was found to have colon cancer.
Colonoscopy should be performed every fifth year. |
|
A first-degree relative med cancer of the colon found after the age of 45. |
Screening should start at age 50.
Colonoscopy should be performed every fifth year. |
|
Definitions:
Colonoscopy: Screening for cancer of the colon, telescopic examination of the intestines performed as day case treatment at a clinic or hospital.
First-degree relative: your parents, sisters or brothers. |
Malign melanoma
General symptoms
You should visit your GP, if you note that one of your birthmarks:
Prevent malign melanomas
If you follow the advice listed below, you will be able to reduce the risk of developing malign melanomas significantly:
Inherited risk
The following factor could play a part in relation to malign melanomas: if you have one or more relative(s) who has/have had or has/have malign melanomas, you may have an increased risk of developing the disease.
You will also have an increased risk, if you have previously had a malign melanoma.
Cardiovascular diseases
General guidelines:
Inherited risk
If your parents, your sisters or brothers have been diagnosed with or have died from cardiovascular diseases before the age of 65, you should strive to reduce your risk by leading a healthy life. It is also very important that you have your blood pressure checked every year and your cholesterol level every third year.
Examine yourself in the mirror, so that you know how your breasts look Check for visible changes of the nipples, particularly to see whether the nipples are inverted When you hold your arms over your head, the breast outline must be smooth and even without bulges or dimples. Look for bleeding or discharge from the nipplesExamine your breast for any lumps or changes to their structures by running the palm of your hands over them. Use your right hand to examine the left breast and your left hand for the right breast. Lift your arms and feel in the areas where the breasts end and the connected lymph nodes are.grows in size changes form or colour itches, bleeds or forms crust becomes inflamed or develops into a wound In women, malign melanomas typically occur on the legs (50% of the cases) and in men typically on the back (32% of the cases).avoid sun burns avoid staying in the sun around noon always use sunscreens wear thin cotton clothing and hats as protectionIf you have more than 30 birthmarks, you may have a slightly increased risk of developing malign melanoma Excessive sunbathing or sun burns may increase your risk of developing malign melanoma Particularly sun burns in childhood or youth pose a high risk factor. People with light skin and light or red hair have greater risk of developing malign melanoma, because they get sun burns easier Have your blood pressure checked every year Have your cholesterol level checked every year Avoid smoking Exercise regularly Keep your weight down Eat a healthy diet