About 25% of patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a family history of this cancer. However, only about 5-10% of colorectal cancer has been shown to be genetically linked.

The two main categories of inherited colorectal cancer are Hereditary Non-polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP).  

Every day researchers are learning more about the genetics of colorectal cancer and how this disease runs in families. If you have members of your family who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer, genetic consultation can help you understand your personal risk or the risk for other family members. If you have been diagnosed to have HNPCC or FAP, you will benefit from consideration of genetic testing. This may be helpful in confirming the diagnosis, understanding what cancer risks you have, and assuring appropriate screening and medical management. Furthermore, your relatives may benefit from genetic testing to determine if they do or do not carry the same genetic risk. If you or your family does not have an HNPCC or FAP diagnosis but you had colorectal cancer or are related to persons with colorectal cancer, you may be a candidate for evaluation or testing to determine if you will benefit from genetic testing. You can determine if you may be eligible for these services through our clinic by calling  1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724).