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Colon cancer in seven siblings
P Ghadirian1, M Cadotte, A Lacroix
1Faculty of Medicine, Department of Nutrition, Hôtel-Dieu de Montréal Hospital, Canada.
European Journal of Cancer (Oxford, England : 1990)
|January 1, 1993
Summary
A case-control study found a significantly higher rate of colon cancer in families with a history of the disease. This suggests both genetic and environmental factors contribute to colon cancer development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Colon cancer presents a significant public health challenge.
- Understanding the role of family history in colon cancer etiology is crucial for risk assessment and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between family history and the risk of developing colon cancer.
- To explore the characteristics of familial colon cancer cases.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study design was employed.
- Data collection included family history of colon cancer and pathological diagnoses.
- A detailed follow-up study was conducted on one high-risk family.
Main Results:
- 29% of colon cancer cases had a positive family history compared to 4% of controls.
- One family exhibited a high prevalence of colon cancer among siblings (7 out of 12).
- Familial cases were diagnosed at a mean age of 64, with tumors located in the caecum or right colon.
Conclusions:
- A positive family history is a significant risk factor for colon cancer.
- Both genetic predisposition and environmental factors likely contribute to the development of colon cancer.
- Further research into familial colon cancer is warranted to identify specific genetic and environmental influences.