Hereditary Risk Day calls on families to learn about inherited cancer risk

On September 30, the international Hereditary Risk Day is observed worldwide, dedicated to people who face an elevated risk of certain illnesses due to genetic factors. This year the day is also being marked in Latvia by DROSMES GĒNI, a support organization for patients with hereditary cancer, which is drawing public attention to people who, because of genetic changes, carry a significantly increased lifetime risk of developing cancer.

Who are the "risk carriers"

The term refers to people in whom genetic changes have been identified that mean a heightened likelihood of developing cancer over the course of their life. These individuals are not themselves ill, but their genetic inheritance carries an elevated risk that can also affect other family members.

A call to families

In connection with Hereditary Risk Day, DROSMES GĒNI is calling on families to learn more about the topic of hereditary cancer risk. The organization stresses that knowledge about genetic risk can shape how people subsequently look after their health — awareness of a possible elevated risk can serve as a basis for a more conscious approach to monitoring one's own health.

DROSMES GĒNI represents and supports patients affected by hereditary cancer, and it regularly draws public attention to health issues linked to genetic predisposition. The international Hereditary Risk Day serves as an annual opportunity to remind the wider public of this topic and to encourage individuals and families to consider their genetic history and the risks it may carry for future generations.