Predictive Genetic Testing in the Cancer Management and Prevention

Author(s): Niayesh Najafi, Kayvan Sasaninia, Zoya Najafi, Cady Babakhan Vartanian, Kevin Babakhan Vartanian, Faredun Dungore, and Devendra K. Agrawal

Predictive genetic testing is a medical test that can effectively reduce morbidity and mortality caused by genetic diseases. This specific test predicts the risk of disease and provides prognostic information in asymptomatic persons, leading to the adoption of prevention strategies and individualized treatment in high-risk persons. Although the cause of some cancers is not known correctly, numerous studies establish that some specific gene mutations make people susceptible to specific cancer. Therefore, genetic screening of people, especially individuals with a family history of cancer, can be essential in reducing disease mortality and improving survival. Although genetic screening, in some cases, is associated with challenges, overall, it can be recognized as an important way to prevent and control hereditary diseases and save many lives. This article provides a critical review of the published reports and discusses the value of preventive genetic testing in preventing and controlling cancers and the role of hereditary mutations associated with cancer development.