Probe Family History

Lynch syndrome evalutation is not only significant for the person tested, but for the person's family as well:

• Genetic changes causing Lynch syndrome are passed on in an autosomal dominant pattern-meaning that someone with this inherited genetic flaw has a 50% chance of passing it on to each of his/her children.
• Knowing if the genetic flaw came from the mother or father is helpful, because other family members on that side of the family (aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.) may also carry it and be at an increased risk of cancer.

When assessing hereditary cancer risk, a patient's comprehensive family history remains an essential part of determining the potential presence of Lynch syndrome. The Cancer History Guide is a thorough questionnaire that helps patients probe their family history of cancer and uncover information for a rich discussion with physicians to help assess hereditary cancer risk and the need for testing. Examine the guide yourself to gain some insights on the types of questions to ask patients and to prepare you for having discussions with them about what the guide reveals.

>>Start the Cancer History Guide