How genetic testing uncovers hidden cancer risks before symptoms appear

Genetic testing plays a key role in predicting disease risk, particularly for conditions like cancer. Anna Stenkova, an associate professor at FEFU’s School of Biomedicine, recently explained how medical geneticists assess these risks by analysing family history and genetic markers. Some illnesses are directly linked to specific genes, while others depend on broader probabilities. Cancer often develops due to genetic abnormalities in cells, pointing to a hereditary link. Stenkova noted that genetic factors can contribute to 60–80% of a patient’s risk for certain diseases. However, not all cases can be traced back to a single mutation—many risks arise from a mix of genetic and environmental influences.

A family history of similar illnesses may signal a genetic connection. Medical professionals use this information, along with personal medical records, to calculate individual risk levels. Genetic testing is now recommended for nearly all cancer types and is available in Russia under mandatory health insurance. In Vladivostok, the Primorsky Regional Oncology Dispensary offers these tests as part of standard care. While some conditions have clear genetic markers, others remain unpredictable, relying on statistical likelihood rather than certainty.

The process combines genetic data with medical history to provide a personalised risk assessment. For cancer patients, this testing is widely accessible in Russia, including at specialised centres like the one in Vladivostok. The results help guide prevention and treatment, even when specific genes remain unidentified.