What is Cancer?

It’s a horrible disease. (Actually, it’s one label for a group of many different horrible diseases). It touches almost everybody’s life in one way or another. Billions and billions and billions of dollars have been spent trying to fight it. Countless unscrupulous individuals hawk “cures” for it on social media. Corporations stage tone-deaf events around it to try and bolster their public image, or bottom line. But few understand the biological processes that give rise to it.


In an effort to help increase understanding and raise awareness, I teamed up with an assistant professor of clinical practice and medicine-medical oncology, certified genetic counselor, and fellow hereditary cancer advocate to create this basic explanation of cancer genesis. This 8.5x14 infographic poster can be downloaded for sharing at www.genetionary.org/cancer. 

Please pass it along.

The Political Press Conference I’d Like to See

In my hereditary cancer advocacy, I have interacted with several of my state politicians in person. But with important national legislation, I have only spoken with congressional aides. Seems many of our politicians think they are far too important to give even 5 minutes of time to a constituent concerning a serious subject like cancer research and care. Doesn't seem to matter that cancer is a subject that likely touches the life of almost every one of their constituents in one way or another.

The cartoon is a reminder that ALL American politicians are supposed to strive for the greater good. But sadly, that rarely happens.

Among my favorite Mark Twain quotes is this gem: “Diapers and politicians need to be changed often, and for the same reason.” Just something to keep in mind this election season.

What is a Previvor?

 

This infographic can be downloaded at genetionary.org 

Valuing Artists

Know the Peas in your Family Pod -- Degrees of Separation of Genetic Relatives.

Don’t think ancestors separated from you by many degrees could have passed down influential genes? Oh, do I have some true stories for you. But ahead of International Day of Families on May 15th, I’ll skip that (for now) and just post this infographic for anyone interested.

You can download a PDF of the poster here. 

Germline Mutations: Illustrating the Cycle of Hereditary Cancer in Families.

Germline Mutations are genetic changes that are present in genes in sperm or eggs (germ cells) at the time of conception. Some germline mutations in tumor suppressor genes can increase the risk for developing hereditary cancer. 

Genetic testing looks for changes in genes that have been linked to hereditary cancer. These particular inherited genetic changes are called pathogenic germline mutations.

To learn more about germline mutations and to download the infographic, go to genetionary.org.

Do You Know Peas about DNA?

For Deoxyribonucleic Acid Day!

Download a PDF version of this free coloring/activity book at www.markix.net/DNA