Who is at increased risk for Colon Cancer?

One in every 17 persons will be diagnosed with colon cancer at some time in their life. People with a family history of colon cancer are at increased risk. The risk is greater if:

• More than one family member has had colon cancer
• A family member had colon cancer at an early age
  ( less than 50 years).
• A family member has had more than one colon cancer.
• There are also other cancers in the family,
  especially cancer of the endometrium (uterus),
  ovary, stomach, small bowel, or urinary tract.
• The family is of Ashkenazi Jewish descent.

Why are such persons at increased risk?

They may have inherited a gene that increases the risk of developing colon cancer.

How is this type of gene inherited?

A gene causing this increased risk can be inherited from either parent. A person who has such a gene has a 50 % chance of passing it on to any given child.

How Common is this type of gene?

About 1 person in 500 has inherited an increased risk of colon cancer. Often such a person has relatives with colon cancer or other cancers.

How can I protect myself?

Genetic testing can reveal the need for early detection measures. Early detection is critical for reducing deaths from colon cancer.

How can I protect my family?

By learning more about your possible inherited risk. We are offering you a personal risk assessment. At that time we will discuss the possibility of DNA testing.

How can the test result help me?

The key to successful treatment of any tumor is early detection. If a person has a gene which increases their colon cancer risk, they can take extra precautions. These include having your physician test a stool sample for traces of blood and examine your colon for any worrisome change, both at regular intervals.

A test result (showing no abnormality) does not mean you do not have a colon cancer gene because the test cannot detect all such genes. However, if the test does show a colon cancer gene, it means you are at increased risk, and should take special steps to protect yourself.

If I have the gene that increases my colon cancer risk, what does it mean for my family?

If you have a gene for an increased risk of colon cancer, it means that your family members may be at increased risk also. Once a colon cancer gene is found in one person, relatives can request the DNA blood test and find out whether they also have an increased risk. A relative at increased risk deserves special early detection measures and should start them at a younger age than the average person.

If I come for information, Do I have to have a DNA test?

DNA testing is entirely optional. We encourage you to come for genetic risk information whether or not you are interested in DNA testing.

For Questions, more information or if you would like to make an appointment,

please call: (585) 275-3461