Prognosis
Finding Out You Have a Genetic Mutation May Not Be as Bad as You Think
Scientists are learning they greatly overestimated chances of developing deadly cancers in patients with no family history of disease
Source: Science Photo Library via Getty Images
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Ever since the human genome was successfully mapped 15 years ago, genetics has been viewed as a kind of immutable destiny: If you have a specific mutation, you’re all but sure to suffer its consequences. Now, the medical community is realizing the truth is far more subtle and complex.