MSH2: Cancer Risks
Cancer Risks Associated with Inherited MSH2 Mutations
People with an mutation have . MSH2 mutations increase the risk for colorectal, endometrial and other types of cancer listed in the table below.
Experts at the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) created guidelines which estimate the cancer risks for people with MSH2 mutations. These cancer risk estimates are updated based on the latest research.
If you or a relative have tested positive for an MSH2 mutation, we recommend speaking with a genetics expert. They can look at your personal and family medical history to help you understand and decide on a plan for managing your risk.
Cancer risk table
Cancer Type |
Lifetime Risk with an MSH2 Mutation |
Lifetime Risk for General Population |
Average Age of Onset with MSH2 |
Average Age of Onset in General Population |
Colorectal |
33-52% |
4.1% |
44 years |
68-72 years |
Endometrial |
21-57% |
3.1% |
47-48 years |
60 years |
Ovarian |
8-38% |
1.1% |
43 years |
63 years |
Kidney/ureter |
2.2-28% |
Unknown |
54 - 61 years |
No data |
Bladder |
4.4 - 12.8% |
2.4% |
59 |
73 years |
Gastric |
0.2-9% |
0.8% |
52 years |
68 years |
Small bowel |
1.1 - 10% |
0.3% |
48 years |
60s - 70s |
Prostate |
3.9 - 23.8% |
12.6% |
59 - 63 years |
66 years |
Brain |
2.5 - 7.7% |
0.5% |
No data |
59 years |
Biliary tract |
0.02-1.7% |
0.2% |
57 years |
No data |
Source: NCCN Guidelines: Genetic/Familial High-Risk Assessment: Colorectal, Endometrial, Gastric v. 3, 2024. |
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Other cancers
People with an inherited MSH2 mutation may have an increased risk for other cancers. The exact risks for the following cancers are unknown:
- pancreatic cancer
- sebaceous skin growths
- female breast cancer
Research on how inherited mutations in the MSH2 gene affect cancer risk is ongoing.
It is important to note that cancer risks are estimates over the course of a person's lifetime. Your lifetime risk and risk over the next five years will vary depending on:
- current age
- gender
- specific mutation
- personal and family health history
- diet, exercise, lifestyle and other factors