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Oncogenetics
The objective of oncogenetics, a medical discipline, is to:
- understand genetic predisposition to cancers
- care for persons at risk.
Genetic predispositions are often associated with a family history of cancer. However, cancers are very frequent and family histories exist, so a family history of cancer is not synonymous with a genetic predisposition.
The purpose of a genetic consultation is to determine the share of family history and possible predisposition.
Genetic tests, stills seldom practiced, sometimes confirm a hereditary origin. If an alteration is identified in a family, it can be sought in its relations. This makes it possible to reassure those having no predisposition and following up those at risk.