Understanding Hereditary Bowel Cancer and the Importance of Genetic Risk Testing
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common forms of cancer. While lifestyle and environmental factors play a significant role in its development, around 5–10%—are linked to an underlying inherited genetic mutation in our DNA. This type of cancer is known as hereditary bowel cancer, and identifying whether you carry one of these DNA variants can be life-saving.
What Is Hereditary Bowel Cancer?
Hereditary bowel cancer occurs when genetic mutations, passed down through families, increase a person’s risk of developing cancer in the colon or rectum. Unlike cancers that develop for some other reason, hereditary cancers often occur at a younger age and may affect multiple family members across generations. They are not always the same cancer either.
The Role of Lynch Syndrome
One of the most common types of hereditary bowel cancer is Lynch syndrome, previously known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). People with Lynch syndrome carry mutations in genes responsible for repairing DNA damage, such as MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, and PMS2. When these genes don’t function properly, errors happen in cells, leading to cancer.
Individuals with Lynch syndrome have up to an 80% lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer. They are also at higher risk for other cancers, including endometrial (uterine), ovarian, stomach, and urinary tract cancers.
Why Genetic Risk Testing Matters
Genetic testing helps identify individuals at higher risk for hereditary bowel cancer before symptoms appear. If you have a family history of bowel cancer, which developed at a young age or affected multiple relatives, then genetic testing can determine whether you carry any mutations linked to Lynch syndrome or other hereditary cancers.
If a genetic mutation is identified it is not something to fear. There are a number of screening programs available, such as regular colonoscopies, starting at a younger age. In some cases, preventive measures or treatments are offered to reduce the risk of developing cancer altogether.
Take Action
If you’re concerned about your family history, speak to us, your doctor or a genetic counsellor. Understanding your genetic risk empowers you to take proactive steps for your health, and make decisions that could potentially save not just your life but others in your family as well.
Click here to read more about how to test for your genetic risk of developing hereditary bowel cancer.
Click here to chat with a Human Genetics specialist.
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Forensic Genomics Innovation Hub
Laboratory 7, First Floor
Epsilon House, Enterprise Road
Southampton Science Park
Southampton
SO16 7NS
United Kingdom
Email: lab@fgih.co.uk
Phone: (+44) 02380118980
