Some people inherit genetic conditions that increase the risk of bowel cancer:
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) – causes many polyps to form in the large bowel. These polyps may develop into cancer if not removed. People with FAP are monitored closely with regular colonoscopies and may need surgery to reduce their risk.
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) – diagnosis, surgery | Macmillan Cancer Support
Lynch syndrome
Lynch syndrome – is an inherited genetic condition that increases a person’s lifetime risk of developing Bowel cancer, Endometrial cancer (cancer of the womb) and other cancers. It occurs when an altered / mutated version of a specific type of gene, known as a Mis-match repair gene, is passed from a parent to a child. Lynch syndrome was previously known as Hereditary Non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).
All Bowel cancers are routinely tested to see whether they have been caused because of Lynch syndrome. Families who are known to have Lynch syndrome are offered genetic counselling and increased screening to reduce their risk of developing a cancer.
For more information on Lynch syndrome please see:
Lynch Syndrome Patient Support at Bradford Teaching Hospitals
