Genetics of cancer

Whilst some types of cancer are known to run in families, not all cancers are linked explicitly to inherited genes. However, it is the gene changes that occur in a single cell over the course of a person's lifetime that cause most cases of cancer. Therefore, there is a complex relationship between genes and cancer, and hence the 'genetics of cancer' is a field that is constantly being researched to increase our knowledge. It is hoped that understanding this link will lead to improvements in diagnosis, prevention, treatment and potentially cure.