NJ MAN GENETIC TEST CONFIRMS LYNCH SYNDROME

"Hi Doctor Roshin. This is the official paperwork about my Lynch diagnosis." 
( Mr. Bruce, New Jersey) 

Dear Mr. Bruce, 

Before I begin any explanation on your sent paperwork, do know that with knowledge, "you can beat cancer." God has afforded you this gift of knowledge, and by knowing the diagnosis, you now have the ability to manage and most importantly, help prevent, if not eliminate the possible manifestations, from cancer. 

Your genetic test was positive for a clinically significant mutation (c.454-13A>G) in the MLH1 gene, which has a direct link to a high risk of colorectal and gastric cancers and an elevated risk of pancreatic cancer. Individuals who carry the mutation in the MLH1 gene have Lynch Syndrome, a condition often referred to as hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer. Men and women with Lynch syndrome have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, often at a young age. In fact, there is a 52-82% increased risk of colorectal cancer, as compared to the general population risk of 1.9%, in those people with the MLH1 gene mutation. Females with Lynch Syndrome due to the mutation in the MLH1 gene, have an increased risk of endometrial and ovarian cancer. Additionally, people with Lynch syndrome caused by a mutation in the MLH1 gene, have an increased risk of developing a spectrum of secondary cancers not limited to the following: small intestine, gastric, ureter, pelvic, hepatobiliary tract (liver), brain (glioblastoma), sebaceous gland, and pancreatic. 

Although there are high risks for cancer in patients with Lynch syndrome, many of the risks can be diminished with prompt and steadfast medical guidance and management. Now that you are aware of an increased risk of colorectal cancer, what should you do? Talk with your physician about having a colonoscopy done every 1-2 years searching for polyps (adenomatous), the lesions that lead to colon cancer. If a polyp is found, the gastroenterologist can remove the polyp immediately during the colonoscopy procedure. In addition, a surgical consult should be considered, on an individual basis, to evaluate those parts of the colon which may need to be resected. Finally, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network has suggested that aspirin may decrease the risk of colon cancer in Lynch Syndrome patients; however, there is not enough data to sufficiently make a recommendation for its standard use; yet, this would be a conversation worth having with your physician. Management of Lynch Syndrome will be individualized based on each your and each patient's medical history. 

Knowledge is a powerful entity when used resourcefully. Thus, channel the knowledge of your diagnosis into methods to prevent the side effects of cancer or cancer altogether. You live a rich, quality filled family life, and with support of doctors and new research methodologies, you can easily add years of longevity for a continued robust existence. Thank you for your sharing your story with the world and thank you for your trust. God Bless you and God Bless New Jersey. 


Respectfully, 







Dr. Roshin









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