DNA Testing for Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal Cancer is commonly referred to as Bowel Cancer and affects around one in 20 women and one in 18 men in the UK, making it one of the most prevalent forms of the disease. In fact, due to colorectal cancer’s lengthy development (it can take years for bowel cancer to show symptoms) it is thought an even greater number of people die with (but not necessarily because of) the condition. In any case, the probability of developing colorectal cancer increases with age, with 97% of bowel cancer diagnoses in the UK affecting those over 50. Colorectal cancer affects the colon and rectum, which can be categorised as colon cancer and rectal cancer respectively. It is thought a number of environmental factors aside from age affect the onset of colorectal cancer, including obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption and diet (low fibre, high saturated fat foods proving the worst).
Genetic predisposition DNA testing for colorectal cancer is essential to understand the disease and in order to establish whether an early diagnosis of the condition can be made prior to symptoms. Current research has found a genetic predisposition to colorectal cancer can be evidenced in certain patients. Most notably, the risk of developing the disease is thought to be significantly increased where an individual has a family history of bowel cancer. MSH2 and MSH6 on chromosome 2 and MLH1 on chromosome 3 have been isolated as the genes most commonly associated with colorectal cancer, so DNA testing can be used to screen for known mutations that are present in family members with the disease.
For support and more information about colorectal cancer, please visit the Canadian Cancer Society website, a national cancer organisation which has been providing Canadians with information about cancer since it first formed in 1938.
Speak To International Biosciences About DNA Testing Genetic Predisposition for Colorectal Cancer
International Biosciences provide Genetic Predisposition testing to determine your genetic predisposition for important health conditions including cancers, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and obesity. Knowing which genetic disorders and diseases you are at risk from will allow you to plan to reduce it by making lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise. Contact International Biosciences on 1-800-969-5186 or click here to email us.
