DNA Testing for Colorectal Cancer
The Test is Not Available
Genetic health testing is a physician ordered test in the USA. The physician in question will need to authorise the testing. IBDNA does not provide this test to USA residents.
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 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention which provides useful information, by raising awareness of bowel cancer, campaigning for best treatment and care and providing practical support and advice.
Genetic Health Testing and The FDA – Important Note
Genetic health testing is a physician ordered test in the USA. The physician in question will need to authorise the testing. IBDNA does not provide this test to USA residents.
