Tag

Lynch Syndrome

All articles tagged with #lynch syndrome

health2 months ago

Lynch Syndrome Patient Faces Decision on Continuing Colonoscopies

A 79-year-old woman with Lynch syndrome is uncertain about continuing colonoscopies due to her age and cardiac risks. Dr. Roach explains that the decision to stop screening depends on individual health and risk factors, noting her lifetime colon cancer risk is about 20%, but her risk decreases with age. Both risks are low, so stopping is reasonable if she prefers, but continuing is also acceptable.

health1 year ago

Uncovering the Genetic Condition Linked to Increased Cancer Risk

Lynch syndrome is a little-known genetic disorder that greatly increases the risk of various cancers, including colon, colorectal, uterine, ovarian, stomach, small bowel, kidney, bladder, and brain cancer. Due to its silent nature, 95% of patients with the condition are unaware of it until they develop cancer. Genetic testing through blood or saliva tests can diagnose Lynch syndrome, and those who test positive should undergo regular screenings, especially colonoscopies, to monitor for cancer. A clinical trial for a new cancer vaccine targeting Lynch syndrome patients is underway, with the potential to extend to other types of cancers if successful. It's crucial for individuals to discuss their family history with their primary care doctors and consider genetic testing, as early detection can lead to more frequent screenings and potentially life-saving interventions.

health1 year ago

Uncovering the Genetic Condition Increasing Cancer Risk

Lynch syndrome is a little-known genetic disorder that significantly increases the risk of various cancers, including colon and colorectal cancer, but is often undiagnosed due to its lack of symptoms. It can be detected through genetic testing and requires close monitoring through regular screenings, especially colonoscopies, for those who test positive. A clinical trial for a new cancer vaccine targeting Lynch syndrome patients is underway, with the potential to extend to other types of cancers if successful. Patients are advised to discuss their family history with their primary care doctors and consider genetic testing for early detection and prevention.

health1 year ago

"Enhanced Cancer Screening Protocol for Lynch Syndrome Patients in England"

NHS England will offer regular cancer checks to thousands of people with Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition that raises the risk of bowel cancer by up to 80%. The move aims to detect cancers early and save lives. Lynch syndrome, which affects an estimated 175,000 people in England, can be identified through a simple blood test, and those affected can have regular colonoscopies from a young age. The initiative is expected to improve outcomes for people with Lynch syndrome and is part of efforts to improve cancer care in England.

health2 years ago

The Alarming Surge of Cancer in Young Adults: Ignored Symptoms and Possible Causes

A growing trend of young people in the U.S. developing cancer has been observed, with gastrointestinal cancers, like colorectal cancer, rising fastest. One man, JJ Singleton, ignored his symptoms until he was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer at age 27. Singleton has Lynch syndrome, a genetic mutation that increases the risk of various cancers in young people. Lack of awareness about Lynch syndrome means many people who could benefit from genetic testing do not get it. Regular screenings and early detection are crucial for those with Lynch syndrome, as it can change the treatment approach. Singleton underwent an immunotherapy clinical trial that successfully shrunk his tumor, allowing him to undergo surgery and improve his quality of life.

health2 years ago

Lynch Syndrome: A Possible Cause of Rising Cancer Rates in Young People

A growing trend of more young people in the U.S. developing cancer has been observed, with gastrointestinal cancers, like colorectal cancer, rising fastest. One man, JJ Singleton, ignored his symptoms until he was diagnosed with stage 4 colorectal cancer at the age of 27. He later discovered he had Lynch syndrome, a genetic mutation that increases the risk of various cancers. Lynch syndrome may be a factor in the increasing rates of cancer in young people overall. Genetic testing can help identify Lynch syndrome, and regular screenings can detect cancer at earlier stages. Treatment options, such as immunotherapy, can be tailored based on the presence of Lynch syndrome. Raising awareness about Lynch syndrome and the importance of genetic testing is crucial to help young people prevent and manage cancer.

health2 years ago

Advancing Cancer Predisposition Testing: A Push for Expansion

Genetic testing for hereditary cancer risk is now more affordable and accessible, yet many people who should be offered this testing never hear about it. Experts estimate that about 10% of cancer cases in the US are caused by inherited genetic mutations, but the vast majority of cancer patients never get genetically tested. Lack of knowledge among doctors about the latest testing technology and science, as well as a lack of awareness about the multiple organ risks associated with hereditary cancer syndromes, contribute to the underutilization of genetic testing. Raising awareness and promoting genetic testing could help identify individuals at high risk and potentially catch cancer at an earlier stage.

health2 years ago

Misdiagnosed Menopause: Bowel Cancer Causes Anemia in 36-Year-Old

A 36-year-old woman in the UK was diagnosed with bowel cancer after experiencing symptoms of anemia. Further testing revealed that she had a genetic condition called Lynch syndrome, which increases the risk of certain cancers. Bowel cancer rates among younger people are on the rise. The woman underwent keyhole surgery and chemotherapy, and is now in remission. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of bowel cancer and raising awareness about the disease, which is often associated with older individuals. Regular screening is crucial for early detection and treatment.

health2 years ago

Genetic Testing for Cancer Detection: Expert Advice

Genetic testing can detect changes in genes that increase the risk of certain cancers, such as breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers. Individuals with a family history of cancer or who have been diagnosed with cancer at a young age may consider genetic testing. Positive test results may cause stress and ethical issues, so consulting with a genetic counselor is recommended. For those with mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome, early screening and preventative measures can help detect or lower the risk of developing cancer.

health2 years ago

Rising Incidence of Colorectal Cancer in Young Adults.

Colorectal cancer is becoming increasingly common in young adults, with about one in 10 colon cancers and one in four rectal cancers now diagnosed in people under 50. Doctors are unsure of the cause of this rise, but believe there must be some unknown environmental factor driving the increase in younger cancer diagnoses. Family history is the strongest risk factor for colorectal cancers, with an even higher risk when the relative was diagnosed before 50. Regular screenings and swift treatment could prevent a large proportion of colorectal cancer-related deaths, according to the American Cancer Society.