Predicting cancer diagnoses from germ line copy number variation.

This research aims to determine how well one can predict whether a person will develop a particular form of cancer during their lifetime from a blood test. We believe this is possible, because we know that family history is already a good predictor of a future cancer diagnosis. We know that family history is transmitted through DNA, which is present in your blood. We think working out how to do this could take up to three years. If successful, this research will lead to blood tests that predict whether or not you will develop a particular form of cancer. For some cancers, this information could allow you to take measure to prevent the occurrence of the cancer.