Hereditary Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is a common type of cancer that affects both men and women. While many factors can contribute to the development of colorectal cancer, including lifestyle habits and environmental factors, some people may be at a higher risk due to their family history. In this article, we’ll explore the hereditary risk factors for colorectal cancer and why it’s important to know your family history.

What Are Hereditary Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer?

Hereditary risk factors for colorectal cancer are genetic mutations or inherited conditions that increase the risk of developing the disease. The most common hereditary condition that increases the risk of colorectal cancer is Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC). People with Lynch syndrome have a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer, as well as other types of cancer such as endometrial, ovarian, and stomach cancer. Other hereditary conditions that increase the risk of colorectal cancer include familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP).

In addition to these inherited conditions, having a family history of colorectal cancer can also increase the risk of developing the disease. According to the American Cancer Society, people who have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with colorectal cancer have two to three times the risk of developing the disease compared to someone without a family history.

Why is it Important to Know Your Family History?

Knowing your family history of colorectal cancer can help you understand your risk of developing the disease and take steps to prevent it. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or an inherited condition that increases your risk, your doctor may recommend starting screening earlier or undergoing more frequent screening. Screening tests, such as colonoscopies, can help detect precancerous polyps or early-stage cancer when it’s easier to treat.

In addition to screening, making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly can also help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. If you have a hereditary risk factor for colorectal cancer, you may want to consider genetic counseling to discuss your risk and options for prevention.

How to Find Out Your Family History

Finding out your family history of colorectal cancer is important, but it can be challenging if you don’t have contact with all of your relatives. Start by talking to your parents, siblings, and other close relatives to find out if anyone in your family has had colorectal cancer or other related cancers. If possible, ask about the age at which they were diagnosed and the treatments they received.

If you don’t have contact with all of your relatives, consider using online tools such as My Family Health Portrait, which can help you create a detailed family health history. You can also ask your doctor if genetic testing is recommended based on your family history.

Conclusion

Knowing your family history of colorectal cancer and hereditary risk factors can help you take proactive steps to reduce your risk of developing the disease. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or an inherited condition that increases your risk, talk to your doctor about screening and prevention options. By taking control of your health and making informed decisions, you can help protect yourself and your family from colorectal cancer.