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Family history of cancer — what cover still pays

Family history alone doesn't close doors. Personal history does.

There's a strong family history of cancer (parent, sibling, multiple relatives) but you've never had it yourself. Underwriting may ask about genetic testing and family-cancer-syndrome screening; guaranteed-acceptance products don't. Decide based on your own diagnostic history, not your family’s.

Who this scenario fits

  • No personal cancer history but strong family history (parent, sibling)
  • Concerned underwriting will rate you up
  • Comparing underwritten vs guaranteed-acceptance

What to look for

  • Underwritten products — disclose family history accurately; most won't rate you up on family history alone
  • Guaranteed-acceptance products — no questions about family history
  • Genetic-testing exclusions (some products exclude paying out for cancers identified via predictive genetic testing)
  • Standard waiting-period and Accelerated Funeral Benefit terms

Watch out for

  • If you've had genetic testing done (e.g. BRCA1/2), disclose accurately — non-disclosure voids the policy
  • A few products carve out family-cancer-syndrome screening as an exclusion; check the wording
  • Family history alone is unlikely to result in decline on an underwritten product — don't assume guaranteed-acceptance is the only path

Products to consider

Editorial selection based on product structure (not subjective ranking). Quote with each insurer for premiums applicable to your age and cover amount.

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Editorial only — not personalised financial advice. Operated by Evolve Group Limited (FSP711891), a Financial Advice Provider licensed by the FMA.