NHS England to develop ‘world-first’ gene database to help thousands at risk of inherited cancer

Thousands of people at risk of inherited cancer could be given regular screening through a ‘world-first’ gene database developed by NHS England (Picture: Getty Images)

Thousands of people at risk of inherited cancer could be regularly checked thanks to a ‘world-first’ programme developed by NHS England.

The health service said it is building a register of 120 genes known to increase the likelihood of getting cancer – the first of its kind – as part of a 10-year plan to improve the prevention and treatment of the disease.