Understanding your family’s medical history is more than just knowing who had what illness – it’s a key part of assessing your own risk for certain cancers, including colorectal cancer. Genetics can play a big role in this, and being informed can empower you to make proactive health decisions.
Cancer is a result of changes in genes that control the way our cells function, especially how they grow and divide. While most cancers are caused by genetic changes that occur during a person’s lifetime, some people inherit abnormal genes that can increase their risk of developing cancer. This is where family history and genetics come into play.
Before, or even after, a cancer diagnosis, genetic counselors help evaluate your family history to understand your risk for an inherited cancer syndrome related to colorectal and other types of cancer. After evaluating this risk, they can recommend genetic testing options and then help interpret those results.
If a hereditary cancer syndrome is identified during genetic testing, genetic counselors work alongside your care team to guide you through important next steps.
If many people in your family have had colon, rectal, or other types of cancer, it could mean a higher chance of getting cancer because of your genes. This is especially true if family members were diagnosed when they were young or if cancer happened in many generations. A family history of cancer or an inherited genetic condition doesn’t mean you will get cancer, but it does mean you may be at a higher risk and should begin screening before age 45.
Family History
Genetic testing can identify specific inherited mutations that increase the risk of cancer. If you have a strong family history of cancer, or if you are concerned about your risk, discussing genetic testing with a healthcare professional might be a good idea. It can provide valuable information for you and your family members. It can also help in making informed decisions about your health care.
“In 2015, I was diagnosed with FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis), which is a genetic link to colon cancer that I inherited from my father. At 23 years old, I had my first colonoscopy, which found several precancerous polyps with a medium size polyp in my rectum. I continued to have annual colonoscopies until 2022 at the age of 29, I had hundreds of polyps and my surgeon said it was time to have a total colectomy to prevent myself from developing colon cancer.…I truly believe colonoscopies prevented me from having colon cancer.”
If genetic testing shows that you have a higher risk of cancer, there are proactive steps you can take. Regular screenings, lifestyle changes, and working closely with your healthcare team can help you stay ahead of the curve and manage your risk effectively.
Information on these pages is provided for educational purposes only. Consult your physician before making any medical decisions.
