The Medical Advisor

In the ever-evolving field of oncology, understanding genetics and genomics is crucial for patients, families, and healthcare providers alike. Genetics focuses on the study of genes and their role in inheritance—how certain traits or conditions are passed from one generation to the next. Genetic testing identifies inherited mutations present in every cell of the body since birth (known as germline testing). This can be performed via a blood test, cheek swab, or saliva sample. In cancer care, it's vital because it detects inherited predispositions to specific cancers, such as those linked to BRCA1/2, ATM, PALB2, CHEK2, BRIP1, Lynch syndrome, and others. These insights inform treatment choices, surveillance strategies, risk-reduction measures, and family testing recommendations. Genomics, on the other hand, examines a person's entire genome. In cancer, genomic testing analyzes the tumor cells to pinpoint gene or protein alterations that distinguish them from healthy cells. By se...