Cancer risk is also increased in genetic forms of colon cancer. There are two known genetic forms of colon cancer: familial adeno-polyposis (FAP) and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC). Genetic inherited cancers account for 5-10% of all colon cancers (Burt, 1997). Researchers have identified single genes that lead to colon cancer susceptibility. These genes are transmitted to offspring through an autosomal dominant pattern; offspring of these carriers have a 50% chance of inheriting the gene mutation and the associated risks (Glaser, 1998).
Get the Facts: http://genefacts.org Lynch syndrome is a cancer predisposition syndrome caused by inherited mutations in genes responsible for correcting DNA replication errors. Individuals with Lynch syndrome have a greatly increased risk for colorectal, endometrial, and stomach cancers, and a moderately increased risk for other cancers. Key Points 1-3% of colon cancers attributable to Lynch syndrome Dominant inheritance with reduced penetrance (not all patients with mutations will manifest disease) Diagnosis based on clinical and family history, tumor pathology and/or genetic testing Screening and prophylactic surgeries effective in reducing some, but not all cancer risks Mutations in any of several genes can cause the syndrome
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