Question: is cancer genetic?

Alex Pool answered on 17 Nov 2014:

So cancer starts when a cell in your body gets three (or more) mutations within its DNA (so yes, the genes). DNA is the equivalent of a computer code that tells the cell what to do.

These mutations in your DNA can happen in a number of ways, the first is simply errors when the DNA is being copied to make new cells – a bit like when we make typos when we’re writing on a computer. Your cells are really good at recognising those mistakes and correcting them, but occasionally some errors get through.

Some chemicals can cause mutations, which is why smoking is so bad for you.

Radiation is another thing than can cause mutations, which is why you should always wear sun cream, as it stops the radiation that can cause cancer.

There are even some viruses which can make those mutations.

Alongside that you can also get mutations from your parents, which is why people with some genes are more susceptible to some cancers than others.