Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is a genetic disorder that puts individuals at a higher risk of developing specific types of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. According to the National Institutes of Health, Lynch syndrome is responsible for approximately three to five percent of the 140,000 cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed annually.
Heightened Cancer Vulnerability
Lynch syndrome is often linked to an elevated risk of developing certain types of cancer, particularly colorectal and endometrial cancer. While this genetic disorder typically does not cause non-cancerous polyps or growths in the colon, there are cases where individuals may experience their formation. Additionally, Lynch syndrome has been associated with an increased susceptibility to other cancers, including
Signs and Symptoms of Lynch Syndrome
Unlike other disorders, Lynch syndrome does not present with any specific symptoms. However, the presence of certain signs and symptoms may indicate the development of cancer associated with this genetic condition. According to the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), individuals with Lynch syndrome who develop cancer may experience various symptoms such as abdominal pain, constipation, fatigue, gastrointestinal bleeding, or weight loss.