LIRON D. GROSSMANN, MD AND JOHN M. MARIS, MD

GENETICS IS THE SCIENCE or study of the body’s cells (genes, DNA, and chromosomes) and how genes are passed from parents to their offspring (called heredity). Genetic testing is an emerging and evolving area in childhood cancer. As a survivor of childhood cancer, it is important to understand how genetics played a role in diagnosis and treatment. Future monitoring of you or your child’s health should include a conversation around genetics for yourself and any future children. It could also have an impact on immediate family members like parents and siblings. This chapter will help you to understand some of the terms, testing, surveillance practices around genetics. Talking with a genetic counselor or oncologist will help you determine testing or monitoring options based on specific cancer diagnosis. (See Health of Offspring and Genetics Counseling and Testing in Chapter 3, Relationships)