Abstract
Knowledge of familial/genetic information about cancer risk involving at least 100 disorders could be utilized profitably by surgeons in their daily practice. Familial cancer of the breast, ovary, and colon, malignant melanoma, and testicular feminization syndrome, and masculinizing Turner's syndrome are discussed. Biological markers, an area of emerging research interest, have been considered for their cancer control potential. Prophylactic surgical implications for certain familial cancer disorders have been given.