What is the first step in cancer risk assessment?

Comprehensive family history is critical as the first step in cancer risk assessment because it helps in identifying genetic predispositions and patterns of cancer within a family. By collecting detailed information about relatives, including their cancers, ages of diagnosis, and outcomes, healthcare providers can better understand a patient’s risk factors associated with hereditary cancers.

This step lays the groundwork for deciding if further testing, such as genetic counseling or genetic testing, is warranted. It also helps to assess the potential need for increased surveillance or preventative measures in individuals who may be at higher risk due to their family history.

While other options like performing a biopsy, physical examination, and identifying environmental factors are significant components of cancer diagnosis and risk assessment, they do not specifically target the genetic and familial elements that are foundational for evaluating cancer risk.