Important Guidelines for those with GENETIC Cancer

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Sound familiar Priscilla?

Here are some of the preventive steps you and your doctor can take if your

genetic test indicates a risk of developing an inherited cancer.

Increased Surveillance

Colonoscopy every one to two years beginning at age 20-25 or 5-10 years

before the earliest age of a diagnosed colorectal cancer in your family,

whichever comes first. Colonoscopy annually after age 40.

Preventive Surgery

If colon cancer (or an advanced precancerous polyp) is diagnosed in a

patient with HNPCC, a full, rather than partial, colectomy is recommended.

In carefully selected people, for example, those not willing or able to

undergo periodic screening, preventive colectomy may be an option based on a

positive genetic test result for HNPCC.

Preventive Drug Therapies for Colorectal Cancer

Different drugs for the prevention of colorectal cancer are currently being

researched for individuals with HNPCC. None of these drugs are currently

approved by the FDA for this purpose.

Increased Surveillance for Endometrial Cancer

Gynecologic exam, transvaginal ultrasound, endometrial aspirate, and CA-125

every 1-2 years, starting at age 25-35.

Preventive Surgery for Endometrial and Ovarian Cancer

Removal of the uterus and ovaries may be an option if colorectal cancer is

detected and may also be considered when childbearing is concluded.

Increased Surveillance for Other HNPCC-Related Cancers

These screening guidelines are necessary in some situations:

For stomach cancer, gastroscopy every 1-2 years starting at age 30-35.

For urinary tract cancer, ultrasonography or urine cytology every 1-2 years

starting at age 30-35.