Our DNA is made up of 3000 million letters of code. They make up genes within our DNA and are responsible for how cells in our body grow and multiply. But what happens when something in that code goes wrong?

Welcome to another episode of That Cancer Conversation, a podcast from Cancer Research UK that brings together the science and the stories behind cancer.

In this episode, Sophie will be looking at the human genome and explore how changes in our DNA can increase our risk of getting cancer. Prof Mike Stratton, former director of the Wellcome Sanger Institute and a pioneer in cancer genetics, helps unpack this question and tells us how he and his team persevered to find the second BRCA gene (BRCA2) and its mutation.

It’s been 30 years since the discovery of the first BRCA gene, BRCA1. Sophie sits down with Maria, her sister, Chrissy, and their mother, all who were tested positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation. They discuss their cancer stories and how the life-changing discovery of the BRCA genes has affected them as a family.

Read more cancer stories on Cancer News

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In the UK 4 in 10 cancer cases are preventable.

But what can the government do to stop those 4 out of every 10 cancers before they even start?

Welcome to the fourth episode of our mini-series, That Cancer Conversation Longer, better lives.

In this episode, Sophie sits with Alizee Froguel who works on prevention policy here at Cancer Research UK. They discuss what’s causing most of these preventable cancers, the announcement of the general election and what's next for achieving a smokefree UK.

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For more cancer stories, visit Cancer News

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Welcome back to another episode of That Cancer Conversation!

We’re kicking off Volunteers’ Week 2024 with the second of our special episodes celebrating our inspiring volunteers.

Last time, we chatted to Penny, one of our campaigns ambassadors. This week, we’re moving into the world of events with Rhian.

Rhian has been volunteering at Race for Life and Pretty Muddy events across London since 2021. She was inspired to get involved after her own diagnosis of ovarian cancer.

If you're looking for a way to get stuck in and make a difference, head to our volunteering pages to find out how you can get involved. Every minute counts and every hour you give takes us one step closer to beating cancer.

If you’re enjoying the podcast, help us out by leaving a review or subscribing wherever you get your podcasts.

And if there are any cancer conversations you want us to have in future, let us know at sciencesurgery@cancer.org.uk

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