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Understanding Cancer Series

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  • Posted: 01/28/2005
  • Reviewed: 09/01/2006

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Slide 27

:

Most Cancer Is NOT Inherited

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Even though all cancer is genetic, just a small portion--perhaps 5 or 10 percent--is inherited.

Most cancers come from random mutations that develop in body cells during one's lifetime--either as a mistake when cells are going through cell division or in response to injuries from environmental agents such as radiation or chemicals.

Most Cancer Is NOT Inherited