cancer predisposition gene
(KAN-ser PREE-dih-spuh-ZIH-shun jeen)
A term used to describe a gene that may increase a person’s risk of developing some types of cancer if it has certain mutations (changes). For example, a person who has mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene has more risk than normal of developing breast cancer and/or ovarian cancer. Cancer predisposition genes are usually passed from parent to child and may be seen within families. Knowing if a person has a cancer predisposition gene may help prevent, diagnose, and treat cancer. Not all people who have a cancer predisposition gene will develop cancer. Also called cancer susceptibility gene.