Population Screening for Hereditary Colorectal Cancer.

Colorectal cancer can be caused by hereditary cancer syndromes such as Lynch syndrome and the polyposis syndromes. Tumor screening for Lynch syndrome has been recommended by several professional organizations. In addition, it has been shown that patients with microsatellite unstable colorectal cancer can benefit from immunotherapy. Unfortunately, universal tumor screening for Lynch syndrome has not been implemented at all hospitals yet. More recent studies have found that the prevalence of all hereditary cancer syndromes is around 10%, and for those diagnosed under age 50, it is closer to 16%. It may be time to consider offering genetic counseling and testing to all colorectal cancer patients.