In 2012, Rick Sample received a diagnosis of Colon Cancer. He was the fifth person in his family to be diagnosed withe the disease. Since this ran in his family, he became a prime candidate for genetic testing for an inherited factor known as Lynch Syndrome. Lynch Syndrome raises the risk of developing into colon cancer to 80% and 60% for women to develop uterine cancer. The test involves examining a tissue sample from blood or spit. Both Rick and his brother tested positive for the syndrome. Genetic testing is only recommended for those with three or more individuals diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome in their family, two or more generations affected, or one person who is diagnosed before the age of 50. Genes that could develop into cancer via mutation include MLH, PMS2, and EPCAM. Most Lynch cancers are adult-onset, and thus testing on children is not common. But effective screening tests can be started, at around the mid-twenties. If someone is known to have Lynch Syndrome, treatment includes colonoscopies. The goal is to begin screening methods about ten years before the age a family member was diagnosed.
This research is very important in the fight against cancer. It is interesting to see how other diseases can have such a high possibility of developing into cancer. Although it isn't completely possible to detect cancer early, it is still very good that a disease that could very possibly lead to it can be detected. Lynch syndrome affects 1 in every 400 peoples. Early detection and action could also save someone in committing more drastic things, such as complete removal of the colon for Rick.
Link1: http://www.dailypress.com/health/dp-nws-genetics-colon-20150412-story.html#page=1
Link2: http://www.clickorlando.com/news/genetic-testing-options-can-show-if-youre-atrisk-for-cancer/32298834
I agree, it is great that Lynch syndrome can be detected earlier on. This will affect many people around the world and prevent them from suffering any further.
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