What is Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)?
• This disease is associated with a gene mutation. People with FAP develop hundreds to thousands of precancerous polyps in the colon. Unless the colon is removed, almost all of these people will eventually get colorectal cancer. The polyps usually develop in the mid-teens, but they have been found in children as young as eight. For families with FAP, there is a genetic test available to screen for the gene mutation. Screening can begin early and surgery to remove the colon can be planned. If you know someone in your family who has either FAP or HNPCC, talk to your doctor as you may be at increased risk. 8. What is hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) • In this syndrome, cancers also develop from polyps but not in the hundreds as in FAP. The cancers usually develop in middle age (late 30’s-mid 40’s). In addition to colon cancer, there may also be an increased risk of cancers of the stomach, breast, urinary tract and uterus. Genetic testing may also be helpful in determinin
