Colorectal cancer patients are often faced with circumstances related to their disease that aren't often or openly discussed. In Taboo-ty : The Fight Colorectal Cancer Podcast we delve into those topics that are sometimes considered controversial, trending or just plain interesting. Listen in as we talk to experts, patients and caregivers who provide accurate, real and practical information for cancer survivors -- it’s time for us to bring these topics to light! Listen in from anywhere - from your car to the chemo chair. To suggest a podcast topic, email answer@FightCRC.org
http://soundcloud.com/taboo-ty
Unknown: What to do When You're Missing Pieces of Your Family's Health History
Most people diagnosed with colorectal cancer have a sporadic, or nonhereditary cause for the disease, whereas an estimated 2-5% of all colon cancer patients have an underlying inherited, genetic predisposition. Medical professionals who see patients with strong family histories of colorectal cancer often recommend genetic testing to identify whether or not a defined inherited syndrome, like Lynch, is present. If it is, it can support a more proactive approach to prevention, like earlier age screening, for example. Adult adoptees, adults without close familial relationships, or individuals with family estrangement, however, may have limited access to their biological family’s health history. While a person’s genes are not the only factor that determines health outcomes, risk of CRC rises sharply with the presence of some genetic factors – and knowing family history can help determine the need to speak to a genetic counselor. If this resonates with you, take time to discuss with your doctor, especially if you notice signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer, and listen in to our November Taboo-ty Podcast episode.