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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is A History Of Cancer In Family Make It Genetic?

i have just been told i have a mass in my right kidney and am now going to see a urologist. i have quite a bit of pain in my lower right side of my back as well as hip. i also have a bit of numbness that goes down my right leg. i have a strong history of cancer in my family. could any of this be related?
Thu, 28 May 2015
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello there,
Certain cancers do have a genetic component but all of them do not. Cancer has 2 components-a genetic one which you inherit and an environmental one which is dependant on your your environment, your lifestyle and what you eat. When both of them come together only then you have cancer. A lot of times with a proper environment the risk for cancer is decreased to minimal levels.

It is very good that you are going to see a urologist as it is always better to see a professional and let them assess you rather than speculate on what you may or may not have and get worried. The pain that you have may just be due to some urinary blockage which is referred to your back and spine. Once investigations are done I would be able to help you better and explain what exactly you have and what can be done about it.

You can always get back to me with reports and I would be glad to help you,

Dr Arun A
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Note: For detailed guidance on genetic screening consult a genetics specialist
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Is A History Of Cancer In Family Make It Genetic?

Hello there, Certain cancers do have a genetic component but all of them do not. Cancer has 2 components-a genetic one which you inherit and an environmental one which is dependant on your your environment, your lifestyle and what you eat. When both of them come together only then you have cancer. A lot of times with a proper environment the risk for cancer is decreased to minimal levels. It is very good that you are going to see a urologist as it is always better to see a professional and let them assess you rather than speculate on what you may or may not have and get worried. The pain that you have may just be due to some urinary blockage which is referred to your back and spine. Once investigations are done I would be able to help you better and explain what exactly you have and what can be done about it. You can always get back to me with reports and I would be glad to help you, Dr Arun A