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PMS2: Cancer Risks

People with a mutation in the PMS2 gene have Lynch syndrome and an increased risk for several types of cancer. Learn about these cancer risks. Stay up to date by signing up for our community newsletter.

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Cancer Risks Associated with Inherited Mutations

If you have tested positive for a mutation, we recommend speaking with a genetics expert who can assess your personal and family history of cancer and help you decide on a plan to manage your cancer risk.

People with an inherited mutation have an increased lifetime risk for several cancers. Additionally, the cancers tend to occur at a younger age than people in the general population. The following are the most common cancers.

Cancer Type	Lifetime Risk with Mutation	Lifetime Risk in General Population	Average Age of Diagnosis with Mutation	Average Age of Diagnosis in General Population
Colorectal	8.7-20%	4%	61-66 years	68 - 72 years
Endometrial	13-26%	3.1%	49-50 years	60 years
Source: NCCN Guidelines: Genetic/Familiar High-Risk Assessment: Colorectal, Endometrial, Esophageal, and Gastric; v.1 2026.

Other cancers

For people with mutations in the other genes, research has shown an increased risk for several additional cancers beyond endometrial and colorectal. However, for people with mutations, the risk for these other cancers may not be increased. More research is needed to learn if the lifetime risk for cancers other than colorectal and endometrial cancers is elevated compared to people without a mutation.