Lynch Syndrome & Inherited Cancer

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What is Lynch Syndrome?

Lynch syndrome is an inherited condition that increases the risk for colorectal, endometrial and several other types of cancers, and causes these cancers to run in families. It is caused by a mutation in one of five different genes. A parent who has Lynch syndrome can pass it to their child. Each child has a 50% chance of inheriting their parent's mutation. Genetic counseling and testing can help people learn if they have Lynch syndrome. 

Genes linked to Lynch syndrome

The five genes listed below cause Lynch syndrome. Each gene is associated with different risks and guidelines. Learn more about each gene by clicking on the name.

Lynch Syndrome Genes

EPCAMMLH1MSH2MSH6PMS2

Know your gene

Because cancer risks and management guidelines vary by gene, it's important to know which mutation you have. A genetics expert can help you understand more about your genetic test results.

More about Lynch syndrome

  • Lynch syndrome is sometimes called “hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer” or HNPCC. Most healthcare professionals no longer use this term, since Lynch syndrome can increase the risk for other cancers besides colon cancer.
  • Lynch syndrome is not rare, about 1 in 280 people has a Lynch syndrome mutation. 
  • Lynch syndrome runs in families. If you test positive for a Lynch syndrome mutation, it's important to let your blood relatives know, so that they can get tested. 

Meet FORCE's Lynch syndrome community

March 01, 2023

Lynch Syndrome Lurked in My Family’s Genes for Years Before Colon Cancer Took My Son

by Junius Nottingham During my approximately 30 years as a federal agent and supervisor, I worked undercover on numerous occasions and supervised many white-collar crimes involving doctors, lawyers and nurses. Yet none of my work or life...

More Lynch Syndrome Resources

Get Support

Speak with other previvors who share your gene mutation and situation.  

More info

Enroll in Lynch Syndrome Research

Search for studies enrolling people with Lynch syndrome. 

More info

Behind the Headlines

News from the FDA - Two new metastatic colorectal cancer treatments

Update : News from the FDA - Two new metastatic colorectal cancer treatments

The FDA recently approved two new treatments for metastatic colorectal...

Immunotherapy improves outcomes of advanced endometrial cancer

Study : Immunotherapy improves outcomes of advanced endometrial cancer

Standard treatment for advanced endometrial cancer may soon change. A...

New treatment option for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer

Study : New treatment option for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer

If you have advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer, there is...

Prostate cancer screening may benefit people with Lynch syndrome

Study : Prostate cancer screening may benefit people with Lynch syndrome

Initial results from the IMPACT trial show that PSA testing...

Last updated May 06, 2024