TC in the Family

[Davie]

I've read that development of TC may in some instances may be genetic.

After I was diagnosed with non-seminoma, I found out my second cousin had previously been treated for seminoma.

Now, this maybe coincidence, but I'd be interested to know if anyone else has had more than one case of TC in their extended family.

Davie

[jdunn]

Hi Davie,
My brother had TC at the age of 24 in the year 1984. I always question the genetic end of it. I asked my son's Urologist when my son was first diagnosed if indeed he thought TC was hereditary he said, no, "just bad luck". I beg to differ.

[keysi]

I don't know too much but I have read that genetics in fact play a role in TC, juts like Breast Cancer, if there is a family history of a type of cancer there is always a higher probability of getting it, it does not mean that is actually hereditary but you do have a higher risk.

[Kev332]

Yes, my oncologist made sure I told my brother to do self checks regularly because there is a higher percentage for family members to get it...

[Fish]

No relatives my mother's side have had TC. However, my mother had breast cancer.
But, I've never had any contact with my father or his side of the family, so I don't know anything about them.

[jenpat]

Genetics

My finace was just diagnosed at 28, and his grandfather had it at 50...he is now 72 and doing just fine.

[Kman99]

There are genetic links with cancer...TC included. My paternal grandfather died from pancreatic cancer, and my paternal grandmother is surviving through colon cancer. There are no other cases of TC in my family. However, as Kev said, my brothers have to pay close attention, as do their sons...and any of my future sons too. No one knows the true cause of TC, but genetics and environmental issues are likely to play a big part and increase the odds.

jenpat - your fiance will be fine too - just like his grandfather!

[Mom]

My husband at 35 in 1980; my son at 29 in 2004. Definitely a link.