Colon Cancer and Heredity: A Conversation with Amie Blanco
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the nation’s fourth most common cancer in both men and women. Like other forms of cancer, colon cancer has a hereditary component, and individuals who are genetically predisposed to colon cancer have a lifetime risk of at least 80 percent.
Therefore, it is extremely important to know whether you or your relatives are at risk of developing colon cancer. Genetic testing can identify certain gene mutations linked to the two forms of hereditary colon cancer, and can help you and your doctor map out the best plan for prevention and treatment. For example, at-risk individuals should start getting colonoscopies at a young age and should repeat the procedure every one to two years.
In an audio interview with Andrew Schorr, host of UCSF Medical Center’s Patient Power series, genetic counselor Amie Blanco of UCSF’s Cancer Risk Program discusses the hereditary risk of colon cancer, and what you can do to educate and protect yourself.