Genetics of Hereditary Colorectal Cancer

The genetics of hereditary colorectal cancer have been determined to play a role in whether or not an individual is at risk of developing the disease. Colon tumor cells have been demonstrated to contain somatic mutations in some specific genes. The genetics of hereditary colorectal cancer should be taking into account when attempting to counsel a patient on the risks of developing this form of cancer, alongside the patient’s overall medical history.

Patients Should Undergo Genetic Testing

Since a link to genetic predisposition has already been found from studies of hereditary colorectal cancer, it is important that doctors recommend that patients undergo genetic testing if a history of colon cancer has been detected in the patient’s family. This will allow the doctor to assess the risk levels of the patient developing cancer, and help the doctor to prepare a course of preventative measures for the patient.

Genetic Counseling for At Risk Patients

Counseling should be done with every patient before offering DNA testing. The purpose of this counseling session should be to inform the patient about the genetics of hereditary colorectal cancer, and also to help the family make informed decisions about the outcome of the genetic testing. The patients and their families should be made aware of the course of action to manage their cancer risks, and to help the patient adjust psychologically to the newfound knowledge regarding their risks of developing the disease.

Helping the Patient to Change His or Her Lifestyle

At the time of genetic counseling, the patient should also be given information on how to reduce the risk of developing cancer, despite the inherent risk already present due to the genetics of hereditary colorectal cancer. These preventative measures would include changes in the patient’s diet and exercise regimen. The doctor may also recommend that the patient begin undergoing regular colon cleansing as an additional preventative measure.

Bad Habits That Contribute to the Risk of Colorectal Cancer

A number of bad habits must be eliminated by the patient in order to help reduce the risks of colorectal cancer. First a high fat, high calorie, and high protein diet increases the risks of colorectal cancer due to the fact that this type of diet is typically low in fresh fruits and vegetables, and may also result in the patient being overweight. The patient should be strongly encouraged to change the diet and to also begin exercising regularly in order to reduce their weight. Smoking and drinking must also be eliminated as they contribute to the risk of colorectal cancer as well.

Knowledge and Prevention Are the Keys to Decreasing Risk

Knowing the inherent risks due to the genetics of hereditary colorectal cancer, and taking measures to prevent colorectal cancer, are the best ways to significantly attack the risk of colorectal cancer. By taking preventative measures developing cancer can be completely avoided. If the cancer still develops, the patient is at much greater odds of surviving it due to the fact that the patient has been taking preventative measures that have put the body in a better position to fight it off.