Family history matters

Abstract

ABSTRACT:Colorectal cancer is one of the few malignancies where screening can prevent the disease. Removal of polyps at colonoscopy has been clearly shown to prevent colon cancer. Additionally, several studies have demonstrated the preventive effect of aspirin on colon cancer risk. Targeting high risk groups for prevention strategies ensures that those most likely to gain are served. While there are several factors associated with colon cancer risk (such as ulcerative colitis and Lynch syndrome) one of the more common and easily identified risk factors is family history of colon cancer or polyps. The article by Lowrey et al. in this issue of Cancer highlights both the importance of taking a family history in identifying those at risk for colorectal cancer and the barriers to effectively using family history information to manage individuals at risk.