How are Colon and Uterine Cancer Related?

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know if you have the gene mutation HNPCC that your chances of developing uterine cancer and colon cancer are higher? Women who have this gene have an 80% chance of developing colorectal cancer and a 50% chance of developing uterine cancer. It is possible to develop uterine cancer first, and have no idea you even have this gene mutation. A study published in the Cancer Research journal found 1 out of 50 women newly diagnosed with uterine cancer had the HNPCC gene mutation and didn't know it. It's time to look at the big picture! If you have a family history of colon cancer, your already at risk for colon cancer. If your family history includes only uterine cancer, you need to write down who had it and at what age. Then have a conversation with your doctor about what that history may mean for you. Ask your doctor about gene mutation testing if this is an area of concern for you.