Question

Most mutations that cause cancer occur within body cells, and body cell mutations are not inherited. If cancer is not inherited, why does cancer statically appear to run in families?

Answer 1

The cause of acquiring cancer does not only rely on genetics. Cancer can be caused by a lot of factors and the most common factor considered why it statistically appear to run in families is the family's lifestyle. Most forms of cancer are lifestyle-related, and can be prevented. For example, Colon cancer. Usually a person is at risk to acquire colon cancer when he/she consumes too much processed meats and meats that are cooked at a very high temperature, alcohol use and overeating. Usually this kind of eating lifestyle is shared by the family.