Because of my somewhat young age (39) as it relates to incidence of colorectal cancer, there is a suspicion that it may be inherited, or genetic in cause. Specifically, they are looking at Lynch Syndrome which means there are mutations in one of three specific genes that would indicate the chance of getting colorectal cancer in my lifetime is 82% vs 2% for the general population.
A simple blood test determines whether you have it so I will be giving blood next week and getting the results about a month after that. At that time I will have another genetic counseling session to go over the results. I had my first session two days ago where we went over my diagnosis, family history, and determined what we should be testing for. If I do have it there are implications for my treatment plan (more intensive screening regimen) and further testing would need to be done on blood related family members.
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