The Genetics of Colorectal Cancer
The average lifetime risk of an individual to develop colon cancer is 5% (Gastro, 2008; 134, 1284). However careful family history and genetic studies may increase our ability in deduction of an individual's particular risk. Approximately 25 percent of individuals with colorectal cancer have at least one relative with colorectal cancer, while 75 percent of cases are persons without an apparent family history of the disease. At least 5 to 6 percent of colorectal cancers are due to known predisposing genetic factors. Specifically, 3 to 5 percent of all cases of colorectal cancer are due to hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HPNCC). Approximately 1 percent is due to familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
The following sections will provide an overview to the genetics of colorectal cancer, as well as examples of genetic syndromes associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer.
Reviewed by S. Mobarhan, MD, 7/08.
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Colorectal Cancer Care at
Rush University Medical Center
At Rush, home of one of the most comprehensive cancer programs in the country, skilled teams of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists, nurses, geneticists, dieticians and researchers work together, challenging convention, to tackle colorectal cancer. And when it comes to early detection, Rush is a pioneer in genetic counseling. By working closely with patients, colorectal cancer specialists at Rush gather family history data that will help identify family members at high and ultimately prevent the onset of colorectal cancer.
Click here for more information about colorectal cancer care at Rush.
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