MGD

MGD is a CLIA certified lab based in NJ specialized in genetic testing.

11/03/2025

About 5–10% of breast cancer cases are linked to inherited genetic mutations, particularly in the BRCA1, BRCA2, and PALB2 genes. These mutations impair the body’s ability to repair damaged DNA, allowing abnormal cells to grow unchecked. Women with a strong family history — like a mother, sister, or daughter diagnosed before age 50 — face a higher lifetime risk. Men can also carry and pass on these mutations. Genetic counseling and testing can help identify carriers and guide preventive steps such as earlier screening, MRI monitoring, or even risk-reducing medication. Knowing your family history empowers you to detect problems early — when treatment is most effective.

11/01/2025

Hormones — especially estrogen and progesterone — play a key role in breast cancer development. Estrogen stimulates breast cell growth, and long-term exposure increases the chance of DNA damage. Women who start menstruating before age 12, reach menopause after 55, or use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for extended periods have higher risk. Having the first pregnancy after 30 or never becoming pregnant also leaves the body exposed to natural hormones for longer. After menopause, fat tissue becomes the main source of estrogen, so excess body fat can further raise hormone levels. Managing weight, staying active, and avoiding unnecessary hormone therapy can help lower this hormonal influence.

10/30/2025

While many cancers are linked to lifestyle or environment, some stem from inherited genetic mutations that disrupt cell repair or growth control. For instance, BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer, while Lynch syndrome raises the risk of colon and uterine cancers. But genes alone don’t determine destiny — they interact with lifestyle and environmental triggers. Certain infections can also lead to cancer; for example, HPV causes cervical cancer, and hepatitis B and C raise the risk of liver cancer. Chronic inflammation and hormonal imbalances, such as excess estrogen exposure, further encourage cancer cell growth. Knowing your family history, getting vaccinated (like HPV and hepatitis vaccines), and having regular screenings can greatly improve early detection and prevention.

10/27/2025

Exposure to harmful substances in the environment or workplace can directly damage DNA and trigger cancerous mutations. Air pollution, especially fine particulate matter (PM2.5), has been linked to lung and bladder cancers. Asbestos, used in building materials, can cause mesothelioma — a rare but aggressive cancer of the lung lining. Benzene, found in cigarette smoke and industrial settings, contributes to leukemia. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun causes DNA mutations leading to skin cancers like melanoma. Even ionizing radiation from medical imaging or nuclear exposure increases risk. Protective measures — like wearing masks in polluted areas, following safety protocols at work, and limiting unnecessary radiation exposure — play a major role in prevention.

10/25/2025

Lifestyle choices are among the most powerful influences on cancer risk. Smoking is the single biggest cause — it contains over 70 cancer-causing chemicals that damage DNA and lead to lung, throat, bladder, and many other cancers. Unhealthy diets high in processed meats, refined sugars, and fats promote inflammation and obesity, both of which are linked to higher cancer rates. Physical inactivity reduces immune function and slows metabolism, increasing risk over time. Excessive alcohol consumption also plays a role, as it can damage tissues in the mouth, throat, liver, and breast. The good news? Many of these risks are preventable. Quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, eating nutrient-rich foods, and staying active can cut your cancer risk by up to half.

10/23/2025

Some people inherit genetic abnormalities that make them more prone to leukemia. Conditions like Down syndrome, Fanconi anemia, and Bloom syndrome are associated with a higher risk. Additionally, patients who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation therapy for other cancers can develop secondary leukemia years later due to DNA damage from treatment. Family history also plays a role — having a close relative with leukemia slightly increases the risk. Regular health checkups and blood tests are recommended for those with known genetic predispositions or previous cancer treatment.

10/20/2025

Certain toxic chemicals, especially benzene, play a strong role in leukemia development. Benzene, found in cigarette smoke, industrial emissions, and some solvents, harms bone marrow and interferes with normal blood cell formation. Workers in industries like rubber manufacturing, oil refineries, and chemical plants may face higher exposure risks. Prolonged inhalation or contact allows benzene to enter the bloodstream, damaging the cells that produce healthy white and red blood cells. Avoiding cigarette smoke, ensuring proper workplace ventilation, and using protective equipment are vital preventive measures.

10/18/2025

Exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation is a major known cause of leukemia. This type of radiation can pe*****te deep into the body and damage the DNA of bone marrow cells, where blood is produced. When this DNA damage isn’t properly repaired, abnormal white blood cells start multiplying uncontrollably, leading to leukemia. People previously treated with radiation therapy for other cancers or exposed to nuclear accidents are at higher risk. Even though daily background radiation (like from X-rays or the environment) is minimal, unnecessary or repeated exposure should still be avoided whenever possible.

10/16/2025

Melanoma risk is much higher in people with fair skin, light eyes, or blond/red hair because they have less melanin, the pigment that naturally protects against UV damage. Having many moles, especially atypical or irregular ones, also raises the risk since they are more likely to turn cancerous. Weakened immune systems (from conditions like HIV or after organ transplantation) further reduce the body’s ability to detect and destroy abnormal cells. Regular skin checks, both self-exams and professional exams, are vital for early detection, when melanoma is highly treatable.

10/13/2025

Around 1 in 10 people with melanoma have a close relative who also developed it. Inherited mutations, such as in the CDKN2A or BRAF genes, disrupt the body’s ability to control cell growth or repair DNA, making melanoma more likely. People with a strong family history should be extra cautious about UV exposure and monitor their skin regularly. Genetic counseling and early dermatology screenings can help identify changes before they turn into invasive cancer.

10/11/2025

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and tanning beds is the leading cause of melanoma. UV rays pe*****te the skin and damage DNA in pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). When these cells accumulate mutations, they can begin growing uncontrollably, forming melanoma. Sunburns — especially blistering ones during childhood — double the lifetime risk. Indoor tanning is equally dangerous, with studies showing it significantly increases melanoma rates in young people. Protecting skin with sunscreen, hats, clothing, and avoiding midday sun is one of the most effective ways to prevent melanoma.

10/09/2025

Smoking increases the risk of gastric cancer by exposing the stomach lining to carcinogens found in to***co smoke. These chemicals are ingested and accumulate in the stomach, causing DNA damage that can lead to cancerous mutations. Smokers face almost double the risk of developing stomach cancer compared to non-smokers, and the risk is especially high for tumors in the upper stomach near the esophagus. The longer and heavier the smoking habit, the greater the danger. The good news: quitting smoking reduces the risk steadily, and after about 10–15 years, the risk drops significantly compared to current smokers.

Address

807 N. Haddon Avenue, STE 102
Haddonfield, NJ
08033

Telephone

+18625058034

Website

http://www.mgd-lab.com/

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