WHAT DOES GENETICS HAVE TO DO WITH COLON AND RECTAL CANCER?
Genes are the biochemical information that we inherit from each of our parents. They determine your physical features and your disposition to certain diseases. Hereditary genetic factors affect most or all cancers.
ARE THERE DIFFERENT TYPES OF COLON AND RECTAL CANCER?
Sporadic Colon Cancer 50-60%. No family history.
Familial Colon Cancer 30-40%. Cancers that ‘run’ in families.
Inherited Colon Cancer Syndromes 4-6%. A specific genetic abnormality.
WHAT IS SPORADIC COLON CANCER?
Sporadic colon cancer usually occurs over the age of 60, without prior family history. It is the first member of the family to have colon and rectal cancer.
WHAT IS FAMILIAL COLON CANCER?
Some families are predisposed to colon and rectal cancer. A first degree relative or earlier than the age of 50 when diagnosed. The risk for other family members is doubled. Colon cancer screening should start at age of 40 or earlier.
WHAT ARE HEREDITARY COLON AND RECTAL CANCERS?
Hereditary colon and rectal cancers are specific genetic abnormalities, that lead to colon and rectal cancer. Some syndromes are: HNPCC (Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colon Cancer, Lynch Syndrome), FAP (Familial Adenomatosis Polyposis), aFAP (attenuated FAP), Peutz-Jehger’s Syndrome, Juvenile Polyposis, Hereditary Polyposis.
WHAT ABOUT MY FAMILY HISTORY SHOULD I TELL MY COLON AND RECTAL SURGEON?
All family members and their ages with colon and rectal cancer and other cancers.
Family history of gynecologic cancers (ovarian or uterine).
WHAT WILL THE INFORMATION DO?
Recommendations for timing and frequency of colonoscopies, in addition to follow up and testing for other family members.