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genetionary.org

@genetionary.bsky.social
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About genes, genetic mutations, and hereditary cancer prevention.

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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 27/08/2026
BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are both tumor suppressor genes. Both play critical roles in repairing damaged DNA and preventing cancer. And both are large genes in the sense of the amount of genetic information they contain. BRCA stats: brcaexchange.org. All materials 100% human produced. #BRCA1 #BRCA2
BRCA Genes: BRCA stands for BReast CAncer gene. Everybody has BRCA1 & BRCA2 tumor suppressor genes. Inherited pathogenic mutations in these genes are linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer, including breast cancer (women and men), ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, melanoma, pancreatic cancer, and other cancers.
32 days until Hereditary Cancer Week September 27 - October 3, 2026
Learn more about hereditary cancer and strategies for prevention at www.genetionary.org

Graph in image 2: Current total number of known BRCA1 & BRCA2 mutations:77,279
Number of expert classified pathogenic (capable of causing cancer): 4,882
Number of expert classified benign:1,344
Number of expert classified likely benign:1,178

69,875 are still awaiting classification.
BRCA stats source: brcaexchange.org.
32 days until Hereditary Cancer Week September 27 - October 3, 2026
Learn more about hereditary cancer and strategies for prevention at www.genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 24/08/2026
Everything about cancer is extremely complex. And what causes cancer varies enormously. But how it starts, while complicated, is always genetic in nature. Downloaded for sharing at www.genetionary.com/cancer #cancer #sporadiccancer #HereditaryCancer #genetics 100% human produced.
A Simplified Explanation of Cancer Genesis
All cancers begin with a single cell that has developed genetic mutations that allows the cell to grow and divide uncontrolled. But the genes, proteins, hormones, organs, etc. involved vary greatly, making every cancer unique. Cancer is generally categorized as either sporadic or hereditary.
 SPORADIC CANCER
All genes (over 20k of them) are found in chromosomes in the center of every cell. 
An image of a random mutation in the tumor suppressor gene happened during cell division. (A random mutation is called a Somatic Mutation.) 
The cells in our body regularly divide to make new copies to replace old and damaged cells. That means the thousands of genes in each cell and the billions of bits of genetic code that determines the job of each gene gets copied over and over. The constant copying can sometimes result in random errors in the genetic code.
 
Over time, random mutations may happen in other genes. Growing older and environmental factors are the biggest contributors. 
If enough Somatic Mutations accumulate in a single cell, that cell may lose function and start growing and dividing uncontrollably and develop into a tumor. 
HEREDITARY CANCER
1 in 279 are born with a genetic variant, called a Germline Mutation, that increases their risk of cancer. The mutation was likely inherited and may have been passed down for generations.
 Image of a mutated tumor suppressor gene.
A Germline Mutation that was present at conception and is found in every cell. 
Knowing and sharing family cancer/health history along with genetic testing can help identify germline mutations. And there are strategies for reducing cancer risk when a germline mutation has been identified.
Over time, random mutations can happen in other genes.
If, in addition to the original Germline Mutation, other mutations accumulate in a single cell, that cell may lose function and start growing and dividing uncontrollably and develop into a tumor. 
www.genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 18/08/2026
National Hereditary Cancer Week is still several weeks away (Sept. 27 - Oct. 3, 2026), but an early start is needed. Why? Because there is information about dozens and dozens of genes associated with hereditary cancer to be shared and one week is hardly enough time. #HereditaryCancer #BRCA
Hereditary Cancer Poster: It’s so much more than BRCA. Hereditary Cancer Week, September 27, 2026 – October 3, 2026. 
For more information about hereditary cancer and strategies for prevention go to www.genetionary.org
A multi-colored hereditary cancer ribbon image is prominently displayed.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 04/08/2026
It’s a horrible disease. It touches almost everybody’s life in one way or another. But few understand the biological processes that give rise to it. This 8.5x14 infographic poster can be downloaded for sharing at www.genetionary.org/cancer. #cancer #geneticmutations #genes #DNA #health
What is cancer? A simplified explanation of a very complex disease as an infographic. All cancers begin with a single cell that has developed genetic changes (mutations) that allows the cell to divide and multiply uncontrolled. But every cancer is unique.
With an illustration of a cell acquiring a mutation while dividing and becoming a tumor.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 27/06/2026
Genetic mutations that can increase the risk of cancer can be passed down for generations and shared by genetic relatives separated by many degrees. Learn more, go to: www.genetionary.org. #previvor #genes #health #cancer #HereditaryCancer #genetics #geneticmutations #familyhealth
Are you aware? Knowing and sharing your family's health and cancer history with other family members (even relatives separated by many degrees) can be life-saving.
 
Download a free fillable family health history pedigree, go to www.genetionary.org. 

Image: A family health/cancer history chart.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 18/06/2026
Genetic knowledge and genetic testing can help save lives. For Info & Infographics about Genes, Germline Mutations, and Hereditary Cancer Prevention, go to www.genetionary.org #genes #health #cancer #HereditaryCancer #genetics #geneticmutations #BRCA1 #BRCA2 #lynchsyndrome
Are you aware? Tumor Suppressor Genes are genes that play an important role in regulating cell growth, DNA repair, and programmed cell death (apoptosis.) If tumor suppressor genes don't function properly because of a mutation, cells can grow out of control and lead to cancer. Inherited mutations in tumor suppressor genes--like BRCA genes (BReast CAncer genes) and many others--can increase the risk of hereditary cancer.  Learn more about hereditary cancer and how it might be prevented at www.genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 23/05/2026
Hereditary cancer awareness, genetic knowledge, and genetic testing can save lives. For Info & Infographics about Genes, Germline Mutations, and Hereditary Cancer Prevention, go to www.genetionary.org #BRCA1 #BRCA2 #genes #health #cancer #HereditaryCancer #geneticmutations #familyhealth
BRCA stands for BReast CAncer gene.
Everybody has BRCA1 & BRCA2 tumor suppressor genes. And everyone has two copies of each of these genes. Some inherited mutations in these genes can be linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer.
 Learn more about hereditary cancer and how it might be prevented at www.genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 15/04/2026
Genetic knowledge can be life-saving. Learn more: www.genetionary.org #cancer #hereditarycancer #genes #familyhealth #mutations #germlinemutations
WHAT IS HEREDITARY CANCER?
Hereditary cancer refers to cancer that has developed in someone who inherited a pathogenic germline mutation in a gene (like a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene). Germline mutations are present at conception and are found in every cell of the body. In some genes, this can result in an increased risk, or predisposition, to develop cancer.
Usually, but not always, there may be a history of cancer in the family. And it may be a different kind of cancer for everyone affected.
Learn more at about hereditary cancer and how it might be prevented at www.genetionary.org.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 21/03/2026
This resource was produced to try and help explain genetic mutations and cancer risk to those unfamiliar with the subject. Download a free PDF copy at www.genetionary.org. #freebooklet #genetictesting #health #cancer #HereditaryCancer #genetics #geneticmutations #familyhealth
Cover of the booklet Peas and Q’s. Text: “Hereditary Cancer Info. PEAS and Q's is a 20-page booklet that helps illustrate the terms related to genes, genetic mutations, & hereditary cancer in a simple question-and-answer format.

Download a free PDF copy at www.genetionary.org.”
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 14/03/2026
Knowing and sharing your family history as well as your family health history can help prevent hereditary cancer. To learn more and to download a free family health history pedigree, go to www.genetionary.org. #genealogyday #genealogy #cancer #hereditarycancer #genes #familyhealth
"Genealogy and hereditary cancer prevention share a common thread. What is it?"
"hint" (with arrow pointing to an illustration of a strand of deoxyribonucleic acid.)

"To learn more, go to www.genetionary.org."
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 03/03/2026
Inherited mutations in BARD1, BRCA1, BRCA2, PALB2, and RAD51D genes are linked to an increased risk for TNBC. Learn more at www.genetionary.org For more info please talk to your doctor and/or a certified genetic counselor. #triplenegativebreastcancer #hereditarycancer #TNBC #genes #BRCA1 #BRCA2
Illustration of three pink ribbons with text: “Triple-negative breast cancer* can be a hereditary cancer red flag! 
* Breast cancer with no estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors on the tumor.
Learn more at www.genetionary.org.”
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 04/02/2026
Learn more about genetic mutations and hereditary cancer syndromes like Lynch Syndrome at Genetionary.org. -------------- #tumorsuppressorgenes #geneticmutations #DNA #HereditaryCancer #health #genetics #genes
It is estimated that at least 1 in 279 people carry an inherited genetic mutation that puts them at risk of developing cancer. However, hereditary cancers are some of the most preventable. Genetic knowledge and genetic testing can save lives.

Learn more at about hereditary cancer and how it might be prevented at www.genetionary.org.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 21/01/2026
Genetionary.org is an ad-free site with a simple genetic mutation glossary with infographics and materials for sharing family health/cancer history. ------- #DNA #health #cancer #HereditaryCancer #genetics #geneticmutations #familyhealth #BRCA
Screenshot of the hereditary cancer information and awareness website, Genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 22/10/2025
While breast cancer in men is less common than in women, it does occur. Certain inherited genetic mutations can increase the risk of many different cancers, including male breast cancer. More about hereditary cancer at www.genetionary.org. #breastcancer #breastcancerawareness
Male breast cancer can be a hereditary cancer red flag. (Yes, men have breast glands and ducts too.) Learn more at about hereditary cancer and how it can be prevented at www.genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 03/10/2025
Got questions about genes, genetic mutations, and/or hereditary cancer? This free booklet is a good resource to start with. The 20-page booklet can be downloaded as a PDF at: genetionary.org/resources/ A professionally published edition is also available. #hereditarycancer #germlinemutations
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 02/10/2025
What is cascade testing and how is it used to prevent hereditary cancer? The infographic can be downloaded at: genetionary.org/resources/ #HereditaryCancerWeek #CascadeTesting #Previvor #CancerPrevention #Cancer #health #familyhealth #GeneticTesting #LynchSyndrome #BRCA2 #BRCA1 #CHEK2 #ATM #PALB2
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 30/09/2025
Here are a few of the red flags of hereditary Cancer. These red flags are only suggestive of hereditary cancer risk. Consult with a doctor and/or a genetic counselor for further evaluation if any of these red flags raise a concern. The infographic can be downloaded at: genetionary.org/resources/
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 29/09/2025
What are germline mutations and what role do they play in hereditary cancer? The infographic can be downloaded at: genetionary.org/resources/ #HereditaryCancerWeek #GermlineMutations #Cancer #GeneticTesting #LynchSyndrome #BRCA2 #BRCA1 #CHEK2 #ATM #PALB2 #PTEN #MLH1 #MSH2 #MSH6 #TP53 #DNA
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 19/09/2025
Previvor Day is still a few day away, but this is being released now to help raise awareness and understanding of previvorship ahead of the day. This poster can be downloaded at: genetionary.org/poster/index... #hereditarycancer, #hereditarycancerweek, #previvor, #brca1, #brca2, #lynchsyndrome
Previvor Day Poster graphic. 

Previvor Day is a celebration of the courage and strength of those at higher risk for cancer due to certain inherited genetic mutations. 

Being a previvor does not mean you will get cancer. Previvorship is about being informed, proactive, and monitored regularly to significantly reduce the risk. Knowledge is power.

Learn more about hereditary cancer at www.genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 06/08/2025
This was created for kids to introduce them to basic genomic science. But damn, there are a whole lot of supposed grown-ups who need to be set down at a desk and given a box of crayons and this book. It can be downloaded at www.genetionary.org/DNA #DNA #science #RNA #kids #activitybook
Graphic of cover of book, “Do You Know Peas About DNA?” And the text: Packed in with your DNA is RNA, or ribonucleic acid, a small molecule essential for all life. It works with DNA to produce proteins and other important tasks. There are several different types—mRNA, miRNA,  rRNA, ctRNA, and others—all with different functions. It sort of looks like DNA cut in half.
Learn more about deoxyribonucleic acid and other fun stuff when you download this free educational activity booklet PDF. For ages 8 to adult. (Adult? Yes. Too many grown-ups know too little about genomic science.)
 
www.genetionary.org/DNA
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 28/07/2025
Hereditary Cancer Week and Previvor Day are still a couple months away, but advocates need to start hanging up posters and playing up the two events to raise awareness. Download here: www.genetionary.org/poster. #hereditarycancer #hereditarycancerweek #previvor #previvorday #cancerprevention
National Hereditary Cancer Week Posters. One with a colorful illustration of DNA, another with a tree with cancer ribbons. 
National Hereditary Cancer Week, September 28 - October 4, 2025. Previvor Day, October 1, 2025. 1 in 279 people are born with an inherited genetic mutation that increases their risk of cancer. Knowing & sharing family health history can help prevent cancer. It’s more than BRCA and breast cancer. Colorectal, ovarian, pancreatic, melanoma, prostate, and other cancers can all be hereditary.
Hereditary Cancer is Preventable!
Learn more at www.genetionary.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 07/07/2025
A free* resource to introduce kids to genomic science. (Hopefully many adults will find it educational as well.) It can be downloaded at www.genetionary.org/DNA #DNA #science #kids #activitybook #genes #educational #parents #teachers #free #amoebas *For personal, non-commercial use only.
Your DNA is found in your chromosomes. Chromosomes are tiny threadlike structures packed tightly with your DNA that are found in the nucleus (the center) of your cells.
Learn more about deoxyribonucleic acid and other fun stuff when you download this free educational activity booklet PDF. For ages 8 to adult. (Adult? Yes. Too many grown-ups know too little about and genomic science.)
www.genetionary.org/DNA
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 29/05/2025
With at least 1 in 279 people at risk of hereditary cancer, this checklist should be a standard in every healthcare professional’s office. Download a PDF of it and other useful infographics about hereditary cancer at www.genetionary.org #HereditaryCancer #redFlags #health #cancer #genetics
Hereditary Cancer Red Flags
-Breast, colorectal, or uterine cancers under the age of 50.
-Triple-negative breast cancer. (Breast cancer with no estrogen, progesterone, or HER2 receptors on the tumor.)
-Male breast cancer diagnosed at any age.
-Two separate cancer diagnoses in the same family member. Example: Both pancreatic and breast cancers in one individual.
-Ovarian cancer at any age, especially in younger women.
-A known BRCA, Lynch syndrome, or other pathogenic hereditary cancer-related mutation in the family. And that can be in a close genetic relative or one separated by many degrees.
-Being of Ashkenazi Jewish descent with a history of cancer at any age.
-Multiple family members with the same type of cancer or related cancers (like breast, ovarian, pancreatic, or prostate).
-Pancreatic cancer at any age.
-Metastatic prostate cancer.
For more hereditary cancer resources go to www.genetionary.org
 
Please note: If you checked any of the boxes, please consult with your doctor
and/or a certified genetic counselor. Be sure to take this checklist with you.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 07/05/2025
Do the math. And remember, this is just for inherited BRCA mutations. Download at www.genetionary.org/#BRCA #BRCA1 #BRCA2 #BreastCancer #genes #HereditaryCancer #GeneticTesting #GeneticCouselors #mutations #genetics #FamilyHealth #Health #DNA #genealogy #ancestry #family #familysearch
BRCA mutations pie chart. Expert-classified as pathogenic: 4,896, Expert-classified as benign: 1,334, Expert-classified as likely benign: 1,178. Not yet reviewed:
67,999 (90%) Total unique BRCA mutations: 75,407 (BRCA1: 36,603, BRCA2: 38,804) Infographic by Mark A. Hicks, www.genetionary.org. Source: BRCA Exchange, www.BRCAexchange.org
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 25/04/2025
Well, do you? Download it and pass the link along: www.genetionary.org/DNA #dnaday #dna #genetics #genes #health #activities #biology #science #april25th #fun #genomicscience #gregormendel #rosalindfranklin
Cover of free 20-page activity book, "Do You Know Peas About DNA?" Download a copy at www.genetionary.org/DNA
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 25/04/2025
#DNAday #DNA #deoxyribonucleicAcid #genetics #humanity #genes
DNA Day Poster. Your DNA contains around 3 billion base pairs of nucleotides arranged into approximately 20,000 genes. 99.9 percent of the base-pair level of your genome is the same as every other person on this planet. CELEBRATE YOUR SHARED HUMANITY. April 25th.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 24/04/2025
Attending #AACR25? Stop by the My Faulty Gene booth (AP14) and pick up a free copy of Peas and Q’s about genes, genetic mutations, and hereditary cancer while supplies last. #hereditaryCancer #cancer #geneticTesting #BRCA1 #BRCA #lynchSyndrome #cancerPrevention #DNA
Photo of Peas and Q's booklet.
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genetionary.org @genetionary.bsky.social · 23/04/2025
Besides making us who we are and connecting us to almost all life on Earth, DNA helps to provide for the prevention, treatment, and cure of many diseases and conditions, including cancer. DNA also helps confirm parentage, ancestry, and even criminal evidence. genetionary.org/dna-day/
Image of poster: DNA DAY. Your DNA contains around 3 billion base pairs of nucleotides arranged into approximately 20,000 genes. 99.9 percent of the base-pair level of your genome is the same as every other person on this planet. CELEBRATE YOUR
SHARED HUMANITY.  April 25th
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