Understanding Cancer and Genetics: Your Family History

 

 

Up to 25% of colorectal cancer patients have a family history of the disease.

When it comes to understanding your risk for certain types of cancer, knowing your family history can be incredibly valuable. Collecting this information isn’t as daunting as it may seem – it’s simple as having a conversation with your loved ones.

Did you know, if you have a first-degree family member (parent, child, or sibling) with a history of colon or rectal cancer you should begin screening 10 years before the age your family member was diagnosed?

Why Your Family History Matters

Certain types of cancer, including colon cancer, can run in families due to genetic factors. By gathering information about your family’s medical history, you can help your healthcare provider determine if you are at an increased risk and whether you should take preventive measures or undergo more frequent screenings.

Step 1: Talk to Your Family

Start by talking to your immediate family – parents, siblings, and grandparents – about any history of gastrointestinal diseases, colon cancer, and other related cancers. Don’t forget to include extended family such as aunts, uncles, and cousins. Aim to gather information covering at least three generations: you, your parents, and your grandparents.

Step 2: Gather Specific Details

Ask about:

  • Types of Cancer: Which types of cancer were diagnosed in your family?
  • Age of Diagnosis: How old were your relatives when they were diagnosed?
  • Colon Polyps: Did anyone have colon polyps? How old were they when polyps were found? How many polyps were there?
  • Other Related Cancers: Pay special attention to cancers like endometrial, ovarian, pancreatic, and urinary tract cancers, which are often linked to Lynch syndrome, a common genetic condition associated with inherited colon cancer.
Document you can use to ask questions

Step 3: Fill in the Gaps

If some medical histories are unknown, you can learn more by talking with extended family, reviewing death certificates, or looking at medical records. If you’re unable to complete a full family history, consider seeking help from a genetic counselor who can assist with research and provide a more comprehensive risk assessment.

Assessing Your Risk

Does one family member’s cancer diagnosis mean you need to worry about having a genetic link to colon cancer? No!

One relative diagnosed with colon cancer after the age of 60 is usually not a significant indicator of inherited risk. However, a diagnosis of colon cancer under the age of 50, multiple cancers in one individual, or a large number of colon polyps can be signs of a higher genetic risk. In such cases, it’s essential to collect your family history and consult with a genetic counselor about your potential risks.

Understanding your family history is a powerful tool in preventing and detecting cancer early. Start talking to your family today. This small step can make a big difference in your health and help you take charge of your health.