Hereditary colorectal cancer.
This article summarizes the genetics of colorectal cancer (CRC), a disease in which 15% to 20% of cases are inherited. Familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis CRC represent the two most common forms of inherited CRC. One particular mutation, APC11307K, is associated with CRC in certain Jewish populations. Inherited cancers can be prevented with careful attention to regular and frequent sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy screening intervals and the prompt removal of premalignant polyps. The role of the nurse should include the prompt identification and referral of high-risk individuals. Ongoing patient and family counseling and education, multidisciplinary collaboration, support for primary prevention, and intensive screening are essential.
Olsen
S J
SJ
Assistant Professor, The Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing, Baltimore, Maryland 21205, USA.
Zawacki
K
K
D011125:Adenomatous Polyposis Coli / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003123:Colorectal Neoplasms, Hereditary Nonpolyposis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D017491:Genes, APC; D005817:Genetic Counseling; D005820:Genetic Testing; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D014481:United States / Q000453:epidemiology