Inherited Susceptibility to Cancer: Clinical, Predictive and Ethical Perspectives

Many cancers, both common and rare, are known to have a hereditary predisposition. Recent advances in genomics have clarified the risks, and in some cases the mechanisms, of cancer developing in an individual. This volume covers all the key issues in cancer genetics, reviewing both the technology behind genetic risk assessment and the ethical dilemmas it poses. The first of two parts deals with ethical, legal, and social issues, with chapters on counseling, screening, and gene and mutation identification. The second part systematically outlines current knowledge of the inheritance patterns of many different cancer types, both from a site-by-site perspective and for special groups. With a final chapter highlighting late-breaking developments, this up-to-date and authoritative volume will be of great interest to the specialist as well as other professionals in the areas of primary care, counseling, and cancer risk assessment.