General Public: Genetic Testing for Lynch Syndrome

In 2009, the independent, non-federal Evaluation of Genomic Applications in Practice and Prevention (EGAPP™) Working Group reviewed the scientific evidence for genetic testing for Lynch syndrome (hereditary colorectal cancer) and developed a recommendation statement about the appropriate use of this testing. This brief summary of the EGAPP™ recommendation statement can help the general public understand what is intended by the EGAPP™ recommendation and where to find more information.

This information may be helpful for people with a recent diagnosis of colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) and their close family members.

Disclaimer:
Our office does not offer medical advice to individuals. If you have specific concerns about your health, please discuss them with your doctor.

• What is the purpose of genetic testing for Lynch syndrome for people newly diagnosed with colorectal cancer?
  Genetic testing is used to find out if a person’s colorectal cancer is hereditary (caused by an inherited gene change), so that family members can learn if they are also at increased risk. This could help to protect them from getting this disease.
• What is Lynch syndrome?
  About 3% of colorectal cancer cases are due to an inherited condition known as Lynch syndrome (sometimes referred to as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer or HNPCC). People with this condition have a greatly increased chance to develop colorectal cancer, especially at a young age (younger than 50 years). Children, sisters, and brothers of people with Lynch syndrome have a 50% chance to inherit the condition. Parents and other blood relatives such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews are also at increased risk to have Lynch syndrome.
• Who developed this recommendation?
  The EGAPP™ Working Group is a group of scientists and health care experts who review available research and evidence to make recommendations about the use of genetic tests. This independent, non-government body includes representatives from universities, industry, clinical practice, insurance companies, and public health.
• Did EGAPP™ recommend the use of genetic testing for newly diagnosed colorectal cancer patients?
  • YES: The EGAPP™ Working Group found good scientific evidence to show that if individuals with colorectal cancer are found to have Lynch syndrome by genetic testing, their family members can benefit by:
    • undergoing genetic testing to learn if they are also at increased genetic risk.
    • if positive for the gene change, having earlier and more frequent screening which can prevent colorectal cancer.
  • They concluded that all people with a new diagnosis of colorectal cancer should be offered counseling and educational materials about genetic testing for Lynch syndrome.