Colon cancer

• Fact: You can have colon cancer for years without realizing it.
• Proportion of risk that’s in your genes: 35 percent.
• What you can do: Knowing from our genetic testing service that you have a genetic predisposition to the disease can motivate you to get screened regularly, make simple preventive lifestyle changes and be on the lookout for symptoms of colon cancer. Getting regular exercise, eating plenty of fruits and vegetables and maintaining a healthy weight may help prevent colon cancer.
• Did you know? Eating hot dogs, bologna and other processed meats can increase your risk of colon cancer.

Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine. Most cases begin as small, noncancerous clumps of cells called adenomatous polyps. Over time some of these polyps enlarge and become colon cancers, at times spreading to other parts of the body. Because polyps rarely cause symptoms, the health condition can go undetected in some people for years.

An estimated 1 million Americans have been diagnosed with colon cancer, the vast majority after age 50.

Scientists know that about a third of the risk of colon cancer is inherited. Our gene test looks for common genetic variants that meet our standards for having an established association with the disease.

If your genetic test results indicate you are at increased risk for colon cancer – or if you have a family history of the disease or bowel symptoms – it may be prudent to start undergoing regular screening for colon cancer earlier than the usual age of 50. Screening can detect polyps and remove them before they have the chance to become cancerous. It can also spot colon cancers early, when treatment is still extremely effective.

Researchers believe that by taking simple lifestyle steps – getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet and perhaps taking a baby aspirin if your doctor approves – people can reduce their risk of developing the potentially fatal disease.