Key Takeaways

Millions of Americans carry hidden genetics that increase cancer riskAs many as 5%, or 17 million, have such variantsThese genetics increase risk regardless of family cancer history or personal lifestyle choices

FRIDAY, Oct. 31, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Millions of Americans carry hidden genetic mutations that increase their risk of cancer, regardless of their family’s cancer history, according to a new study.

As many as 5% of Americans, or about 17 million, have genetic variants linked to cancer, researchers recently reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association .

The results suggest these mutations might be more common than previously thought, researchers said.

“Genetic testing has traditionally been reserved for individuals with strong family histories

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