Definition:
Familial colorectal cancer accounts for about 20% of cases and is attributed to mutated genes.
These mutations may be passed from one generation to the next or may be a product of a person's environment. For example, radiation exposure and smoking can both cause genetic mutations that increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
The risk of developing colorectal cancer is almost three times greater when two immediate family members have colorectal cancer. It's ten times greater when three immediate family members have colorectal cancer.
Related Articles: Sources:
Familial colorectal cancer accounts for about 20% of cases and is attributed to mutated genes.
These mutations may be passed from one generation to the next or may be a product of a person's environment. For example, radiation exposure and smoking can both cause genetic mutations that increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
The risk of developing colorectal cancer is almost three times greater when two immediate family members have colorectal cancer. It's ten times greater when three immediate family members have colorectal cancer.
Related Articles: Sources:
- Detailed Guide: Colon and Rectum Cancer: Can Colorectal Polyps and Cancer Be Found Early? American Cancer Society. 7 Mar. 2006. 29 Aug. 2006 [http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_3x_Can_Colon_and_rectum_cancer_be_found_early.asp].
- Detailed Guide: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Are the Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. 7 Mar. 2006. 29 Aug. 2006 [http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_2X_What_are_the_risk_factors_for_colon_and_rectum_cancer.asp].
