CancerBacup is attempting to dispel some of the myths surrounding the risks of 'inheriting' cancer with a guide spelling out the facts about genetics and the disease.
The Understanding Cancer Genetics booklet answers questions about which cancers are suitable for genetic testing, and what people can do if they are at risk.
It also looks at the role of genetic counselling and explores the implications of genetic testing on those who test positive for one of the known predisposing cancer genes.
CancerBacup is calling for those at high risk to be given access to screening programmes or clinical trials.
"The campaign aims to reduce anxiety among people who may be unnecessarily worried," said Charlotte Augst, genetic information project manager at CancerBacup.
