Can it be hereditary?
My father died of colon cancer, I heard that this type of cancer can be hereditary, if I am also at risk of the disease, what tests should I do to make sure that I am safe. Julka
There are many reasons that may increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. They include, among others inflammatory bowel diseases, intestinal polyps, obesity, smoking or a family member suffering from colorectal cancer. However, the case of one family member suffering from this type of cancer does not constitute a genetic determinant. It is possible to perform preventive screening tests to help detect cancer at an early stage of development. These include annual stool tests for occult blood or colonoscopy, usually every 10 years. Colorectal cancer can also arise from hereditary causes. It may be indicated by the presence of other neoplasms in family members, in addition to colorectal cancer, e.g. cancer of the endometrium, stomach, kidneys or intestinal polyps. In the case of the so-called a positive family history and meeting certain criteria about the probable genetic background of the disease, it is possible to perform genetic tests and establish an individual plan of check-ups, but only after consultation at the Genetic Clinic.
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