Genetics plays a major role in prostate cancer. In fact, an estimated 58% of the variation in prostate cancer risk can be explained by genetic factors, making prostate cancer one of the most heritable forms of cancer. In this two-part episode of Prostate Cancer & You, Michael A. DiSpezio and Dr. Keyan Salari break down the genetic components of prostate cancer in a clear, easy-to-understand way and explain what patients and their families should know. DiSpezio shares his own experience with germline genetic testing, including what prompted him to be tested and what he learned from the process. Dr. Salari provides the medical perspective, explaining how inherited genetic changes can affect prostate cancer risk and why genetic testing may be important for some patients.

Michael Anthony DiSpezio is an author, TV host, and international speaker. With a master’s degree in biology and doctorate in education, he is well known for his skill sets in demystifying complex scientific concepts. Michael's credits include co-authoring over fifty K-12 science textbooks along with writing dozens of trade books on topics that range from dinosaurs to Mensa puzzles. In addition, he has hosted numerous National Geographic broadcasts and ushered the Discovery Channel to their first Emmy Award nomination based on his landmark work in HIV education.

Keyan Salari, MD, PhD is a urologic oncologist at the Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. He is a urologic surgeon specializing in the treatment of genitourinary cancers using open, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery techniques. Dr. Salari is a faculty member of the Department of Urology and a Urologic Oncologist at the Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute. Dr. Salari's clinical practice focuses on the surgical treatment of urologic cancers with a particular emphasis on prostate cancer, kidney cancer, and testicular cancer. He serves as Director of the Prostate Cancer Genetics Program, where families that may have a hereditary predisposition to prostate cancer are offered genetic testing, cancer screening, and support.