Genetics

Question 1

What is the mechanism of genetics behind cancer?

Answer 1

Double hit hypothesis
Oncogenes
“Second hit”
Creating damage to genes with control cell replication

Question 2

How can genetic testing be useful for families?

Answer 2

It allows for individuals to see whether they have any inheritable conditions, and if they do if they will pass it on. Allows for planned and good management of symptoms/disease

Question 3

How does a genetic disease impact on a family?

Answer 3

Emotional impact: worry, anxiety, guilt
Psychological impact: anxiety, depression, learning disability
Social impact: stigma, judgement
Finances: caring for someone with disease

Question 4

How can genetic diseases affect multisystems?

Answer 4

The genetic mutation can be held in many cells having effects wherever these cells express the mutated version

Question 5

What is predictive testing and some of the issues this poses?

Answer 5

May have occupational effects eg is there a need to tell employer
Health insurance problems eg would they get insured
Do they need to tell their family or partner if starting a family
Psychological impact eg that they have something before symptoms begin to show