The studies on which the colorectal cancer genetics group have embarked comprise a coherent strategy aimed at reducing the unacceptably high death rate in the United Kingdom from large bowel and rectal cancer. Already we are able to identify those at high risk of the disease and instigate appropriate preventative measures but our other studies hold much promise to address other aspects of this capricious disease. Section of colon with hundreds of small polyps indicative of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis coli, a form of hereditary bowel cancer. Pedigree of a hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer family. A mutation has been found in the hMSH2 gene and family members have been tested for the defective gene, with the results as indicated.
Genetic instability occurs in the majority of young patients with colorectal cancer.