Using DNA sequencing to uncover more inherited cancer mutations
For people with a family history of cancer, genetic testing may uncover critical, even lifesaving clues. If they find out they've inherited a DNA mutation that raises their risk for breast cancer, for example, they'll know to get more frequent mammograms and other screenings, they may be more alert to potential symptoms, they may even opt for prophylactic surgery, as actress Angelina Jolie did.