Does colon cancer run in your family?
Yes. My father was diagnosed in January of 1997 with colorectal cancer. He survived but did require a colostomy. In September of the same year, my 36 year old brother was diagnosed with colon cance that had spread to liver. He died at age 37 in Feburary of 1998. I was diagnosed on my 4oth birthday in 2004. I chose to do a total colectomy. And once again at age 80, my father has been diagnosed with colon cancer. Not looking so favorable this time.
Have you had genetic testing for colon cancer?
Yes, I did have a gentic blood test in 2005 which came back inconclusive. I was the first in the family. My father's sister also died from colon cancer. I wish our insurance would cover the test, but it will not. I paid out of pocket for the test in 2005. I have many of the markers for HNPCC
Advice
- I chose the total colectomy and have NO regrets. Especially after my father was cancer free for 13 years and his recent diagnosis
Is colon cancer genetic testing is a good idea?
I believe it is. I have 5 children that I worry about all the time. I think genetic testing along with colonoscopy will save their lives
Do you wish other family members would get tested?
yes, I wish our insurance covered it
Why would avoiding testing be a good idea?
there is no good reason to avoid testing
