Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition that increases your risk of colon cancer and other cancers.
Lynch syndrome has historically been known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).
Doctors estimate that about 3 out of every 100 colon cancers are because of Lynch syndrome.
Families that have Lynch syndrome usually have more cases of colon cancer than would typically be expected.
Lynch syndrome also causes colon cancer to occur at an earlier age than it might in the general population.
Discuss getting a genetic evaluation of your family history and your cancer risk.
If a family member has been diagnosed with Lynch syndrome, tell your doctor.
Ask to be referred to a genetic counselor.
Genetic counselors are trained in genetics and counseling.
Lynch syndrome runs in families in an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern.
Your genes contain DNA, which carries instructions for every chemical process in your body.
Normal cells have mechanisms to recognize mistakes and repair them.
Beyond complications for your health, a genetic disorder such as Lynch syndrome may be cause for other concerns.
This may lead to other tests and procedures to diagnose Lynch syndrome.
Samples of cells from a colon cancer and sometimes from other tumors can be used for tumor testing.
These tissue samples are often stored for many years.
Tumor testing can reveal whether your cancer was resulting from the genes related to Lynch syndrome.
People with Lynch syndrome have these gene mutations in all of their cells.
Genetic testing can determine whether you have these mutations.
Genetic testing looks for changes in your genes that indicate that you have Lynch syndrome.
You may be asked to give a sample of your blood for genetic testing.
Using special laboratory analysis, doctors look at the specific genes that can have mutations that cause Lynch syndrome.
Your genetic counselor can discuss the benefits and risks of genetic testing with you.
He or she can explain what genetic testing can tell you and what it can’t.
Colon cancer associated with Lynch syndrome is treated similarly to other types of colon cancer.
Treatments for colon cancer may include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
Stick to your doctor’s recommended plan.
Research hasn’t established which cancer screening tests are best for people with Lynch syndrome.
As a result, medical groups vary on which tests they recommend.
Still, experts recommend considering screening for these other types of cancer despite the lack of evidence.
Your doctor may recommend other cancer-screening tests if your family has a history of other cancers.
Ask your doctor about what screening tests are best for you.
Recent studies suggest taking a daily aspirin may reduce the risk of several cancers related to Lynch syndrome.
More studies are needed to confirm this.
Discuss the potential benefits and risks of aspirin therapy to determine whether this might be an option for you.
In certain situations, people with Lynch syndrome may consider surgery to reduce their risk of cancer.
Discuss the benefits and risks of preventive surgery with your doctor.
Taking care of yourself through diet, exercise and other lifestyle changes can help improve your overall health.
Take control of your health by trying to:
Updated: 2015-03-13
Publication Date: 2006-01-23
