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Today we’re talking about the genetics of Lynch Syndrome and why it is important to recognize your family history and your possible risk factors. This is a timely post, because March is actually Lynch Syndrome Awareness Month. And, as someone who lives with Lynch Syndrome, this post is personal for me! So keep reading to learn a little more about what Lynch is and how you can recognize your own risk factors.
Lynch Syndrome Genetics
What is Lynch Syndrome?
First, let’s answer the basics. If you’ve been following me for a while you may already be familiar with Lynch, but if you’re new, here is a quick rundown of what it is:
Lynch Syndrome is a genetic mutation that increases a person’s risk level for certain types of cancers. Though it was first detected in the early 1900s, and then formally documented in the 1970s and 80s, it’s still rather unknown. I share more on the full history of Lynch in this post.
Lynch Syndrome Cancers List
The list of cancers associated with the Lynch Syndrome gene is actually pretty long. It includes:
Colon and Rectal cancers
Endometrial and Ovarian cancers
Stomach cancer
Small Bowel cancer
Pancreatic cancer
Prostate cancer
Brain cancer
Gallbladder cancer
Liver cancer
Skin cancer
Urinary Tract cancer
I find that despite it being associated with so many different types of cancers, many medical professionals are still unaware of Lynch. This is astounding to me, so I spend a lot of time advocating for awareness around it. I’ve also worked with the Jacqueline Rush Foundation and Ailve and Kick’n frequently, who both share my mission.
Lynch Syndrome Genetics
So, what can you do to recognize your own personal risk of Lynch?
Since it is a genetic mutation, you can look at your family history.
Most doctors' office forms have you fill out your family’s medical history for your immediate family members. Typically your parents, siblings, and grandparents. But take a look at the list of cancers that Lynch is associated with, and think about any family members, immediate or extended, who have a history of any of them.
And the most important thing you can do is talk with your doctor! Primary Care doctors have the power to recognize and identify certain risk factors for cancer, so make sure that yours is aware of Lynch.
As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, this is particularly personal to me, and my advocacy goal is to make sure others don’t have to experience what I did.
Lynch Syndrome Risk Calculator
To make it especially easy, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has actually come out with a risk calculator tool that you can use yourself online. It’s really straightforward and will help you identify if your risk for carrying the Lynch Syndrome gene is high enough to necessitate genetic testing.
The tool is called the PREMM 5 Model, and you can find it here.
It’s free, and takes less than 2 minutes!
Cancer Counselor
Even more important to me than spreading awareness about Lynch, is helping those affected by cancer through counseling. As a cancer survivor myself, I know firsthand how challenging the journey can be not just physically, but mentally.
If you or someone you know is considering a cancer counselor, I encourage you to reach out to me.
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