Fact 4: Genetic Mutations Play a Role
The influence of genetics on colorectal cancer cannot be understated. Our DNA, the very code that makes us who we are, holds secrets that can dictate our susceptibility to this form of cancer. Understanding genetic mutations is paramount for both risk assessment and treatment.
Certain inherited syndromes, passed from generation to generation, elevate the risk of colorectal cancer. Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome are two such conditions. These syndromes don’t just carry with them a family legacy but a tangible, elevated risk for colorectal malignancies. Recognizing these risks early on can be a beacon for preemptive actions – from early screenings to preventive surgeries.
But genetics isn’t just about risk; it’s about the roadmap for treatment. Certain genetic mutations can make the cancer cells susceptible to specific treatments. This phenomenon, termed targeted therapy, involves designing treatment protocols that exploit these genetic vulnerabilities. It’s a futuristic approach, turning the cancer’s genetic code against itself. (4)
