It has been recognized for almost 200 years that certain families seem to inherit cancer. It is only in the past decade, however, that molecular genetics and epidemiology have combined to define the role of inheritance in cancer more clearly, and to identify some of the genes involved. The causative genes can be tracked through cancer-prone families via genetic linkage and positional cloning. Several of the genes discovered have subsequently been proved to play critical roles in normal growth and development. There are also implications for the families themselves in terms of genetic testing with its attendant dilemmas, if it is not clear that useful action will result. The chapters in The Genetics of Cancer illustrate what has already been achieved and take a critical look at the future directions of this research and its potential clinical applications.

Over the last 20 years it has become increasingly apparent that the occurrence of many cancers can have an inherited basis. This book examines the principles underlying genetic predisposition to cancer and will be relevant to practising oncologists, geneticists and other professionals interested in this rapidly expanding field. Coverage is comprehensive, taking the reader from an introduction to genetic predisposition, through a discussion of the molecular biology and statistical techniques involved in the identification and characterisation of predisposition genes, to a consideration of heritable cancer syndromes, and encompasses both rare and common cancers. The text also features a discussion of cancer risk assessment, genetic counselling issues, genetic screening and cancer management options, and a consideration of the associated ethical and psychological issues. Building on the reputation of the previous edition, and to reflect the rapid advances in the field since its publication, the contents of the second edition have been thoroughly updated and include discussion of many newly identified cancer genes. In particular, the book features new chapters added on the biological basis of cancer predisposition, population-based studies of susceptibility, and evaluation of management strategies for individuals at increased cancer risk.

The Roundtable on Environmental Health Sciences, Research, and Medicine wanted to address the link between environmental factors and the development of cancer in light of recent advances in genomics. They asked what research tools are needed, how new scientific information can be applied in a timely manner to reduce the burden of cancer, and how this can be flexible enough to treat the individual.

Many cancers, both common and rare, are known to have a hereditary predisposition and advances in genetics have clarified the risks and in some cases the mechanisms of cancer developing in an individual. First published in 1998, this important contribution to the literature of cancer genetics covers all the key issues, reviewing both the technology behind genetic risk assessment and the ethical dilemmas it poses. It is divided into two parts. The first deals with ethical, legal and social issues. The second systematically outlines current knowledge of the inheritance patterns of many different cancer types, both from a site-by-site perspective and for special groups. This authoritative volume will be of interest to oncologists, physicians and surgeons in other specialities and to health professionals in the areas of primary care, counselling and cancer risk assessment.

Advances in genetics are transforming estimates of an individual’s risk of developing cancer and approaches to prevention and management of cancer in those who may have increased susceptibility. Identifying and caring for patients with hereditary cancer syndromes and their family members present a complex clinical, scientific and social challenge. This textbook, by leading experts at Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center, highlights the current understanding of the genetics of hereditary cancers of the breast, ovary, colorectum, stomach, pancreas, kidney, skin, and endocrine organs. Practical guidelines for the use of genetic testing, cancer screening and surveillance, prophylactic surgery, and promising targeted therapeutic agents are discussed. In addition, ongoing research involving genome-wide screens to identify novel modest risk-associated genetic loci are explored, along with new approaches to the application of genetic markers in guiding therapeutic options.

FIRST PRIZE Winner in the Oncology category of the 2010 BMA Medical Book Competition. Intensive research over the last fifteen years has yielded a vast expansion in our understanding of the role of inheritance and genetics in a variety of cancers. Several inherited conditions have been identified which result in a high risk of various cancers; some of these were previously recognized, but the genetic basis underlying them has now been elucidated. This knowledge is now entering the sphere of routine clinical care. Surgeons, gastroenterologists, gynaecologists, oncologists, endocrinologists and many others need an awareness of these disorders, an understanding of genetic testing and when it is indicated, and how to manage patients with inherited cancer predisposition and their families. This book covers the basic concepts of cancer genetics. The common inherited cancer syndromes are each dealt with in greater depth, with the current management outlined. This book is aimed at all clinicians who may encounter these conditions in their practice. It aims to facilitate identification of high-risk individuals and families, to inform interaction with geneticists and other subspecialists, to provide a basis for patient management and to stimulate interest in these fascinating conditions.

Summarizing molecular aspects, diagnostic as well as therapeutic issues, this book is the very first and most comprehensive on hereditary aspects of tumor diseases. All the contributors have been made fellows of the Ingrid zu Solms Foundation due to their outstanding achievements in scientific research, and they discuss here the latest aspects in the diagnosis, disease management, and treatment of hereditary tumor diseases and syndromes. A must-have ready reference for medical and biology students, MDs, PhDs, physicians, and researchers.