A Deep Dive Into Cancer Genetics

Every child inherits a set of “germline” DNA from each of their biological parents. At times there are also mutations that are passed down. This differs from what are referred to as “somatic” mutations that are only present in cancer cells, but not in every cell in the body. Environmental factors can also contribute to the development of cancers. Knowing your family history and genetic makeup can help in understanding overall cancer risk, recommended screening and prevention strategies, as well as treatment approaches if diagnosed with cancer. Guests: Ravi Sharaf, MD, MS, Director of Clinical Cancer Genetics at Weill Cornell Medicine Host: John Leonard, MD, a leading hematologist and medical oncologist at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital