Medical article
Can bowel diseases be inherited?
Yes. In some bowel diseases, heredity plays a bigger role than we think. But having the disease in your family does not mean you will necessarily get it too. The main thing is to know your risk and, when needed, to start getting examined earlier.
Hereditary polyposis syndromes
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP): numerous polyps (hundreds of them) develop in the colon from a young age. If left untreated, the risk of cancer is very high. Genetic counseling and early examination are recommended for family members.
- Lynch syndrome: even though there are few polyps, colon cancer and some other cancers (for example, cancer of the lining of the uterus) can develop at a younger age.
- Peutz–Jeghers syndrome: shows up as a special type of polyps in the digestive system and dark pigmented spots on the lips and inside the mouth.
- Juvenile polyposis: numerous polyps of a special type in children and young people.
Diseases in which genetic predisposition plays a role
A genetic predisposition can also play a role in Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and celiac disease. These diseases are not “inherited” directly, but the risk goes up if they are present in the family.
What should you do?
- If colon cancer, multiple polyps or inflammatory bowel disease has occurred in your family, be sure to tell your doctor.
- In such cases, colonoscopy usually starts earlier than in the average-risk group and is done more often. The doctor sets the schedule.
- If a hereditary syndrome is suspected, genetic counseling and testing may be recommended.
Do you know which of these diseases, if any, have occurred in your family?