Two genetic mutations commonly associated with breast cancer have also been linked to colorectal cancer. However, two studies published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute indicate the mutations don't increase colorectal cancer risk.
The first study compared the incidence of BRCA 1 and BRCA 2 mutations in 586 patients with colorectal cancer vs. 5,012 patients without colorectal cancer. The authors found no association between BRCA mutations and colorectal cancer.
In the second study, researchers performed genetic testing on about 1,400 colorectal cancer patients and about 1,500 people who didn't have colorectal cancer. The results indicated no association between BRCA mutations and colorectal cancer.
If you know you possess the either BRCA mutation and you've been told you're at an increased risk for colorectal cancer, you may want to discuss this research with your doctor or genetic counselor.
Sources:
- Kirchhoff, T. and Satagopan, J. "Frequency of BRCA1 and BRCA2 Mutations in Unselected Ashkenazi Jewish Patients With Colorectal Cancer." Journal of the National Cancer Institute 96.1 (Jan. 2004): 68-70. 25 Aug. 2006.
- Niell, B. and Rennert, G. "BRCA1 and BRCA2 Founder Mutations and the Risk of Colorectal Cancer." Journal of the National Cancer Institute 96.1 (Jan. 2004): 15-21. 25 Aug. 2006.
