Important Facts for Lynch Syndrome (Cancer)

Definition

The rate of colorectal or endometrial cancer incidence in Utah or U.S. per 100,000 persons or females (respectively).

Numerator

The number of colorectal or endometrial cancer cases among Utah or U.S. for a specified time period.

Denominator

The overall (colorectal) and female (endometrial) population of Utah or U.S. for a specified time period.

Why Is This Important?

Hereditary cancer syndromes are genetic predispositions for certain types of cancer that can be passed down through generations. Lynch Syndrome is caused by inherited mutations in genes that prevent them from working properly to protect you from certain cancers including colorectal, endometrial (uterine), and other cancers.^1^ While hereditary cancers only account for about 10% of all cancers, people with a family history of hereditary cancers are at higher risk for getting cancer more than once in their lifetimes, more likely to get cancer at a young age, and are more likely to be diagnosed when the cancer is at a later, more advanced stage.^2^ [[br]] [[br]] ---- 1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, Jan 15). Lynch Syndrome. [[https://www.cdc.gov/genomics/disease/colorectal_cancer/lynch.htm]] [[br]] 2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020, Aug 03). Cancer Genomics Program. [[https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/dcpc/about/genomics/index.htm]]

Healthy People Objective G-2:

(Developmental) Increase the proportion of persons with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer who receive genetic testing to identify Lynch syndrome (or familial colorectal cancer syndromes)
U.S. Target: Developmental

Other Objectives

'''Utah Cancer Action Network Targets for Change:''' [[br]] Reduce the rate of colorectal cancer diagnosed at an advanced (regional or distant) stage among adults ages 50 to 74. [[br]] '''Utah 2020 Target:''' 32 per 100,000 population

How Are We Doing?

The age-adjusted colorectal cancer under 50 years old incidence rate in Utah has increased over the years. Additionally, the age-adjusted endometrial cancer under 50 incidence rate has increased over the years and has even spiked in certain years.

How Do We Compare With the U.S.?

Throughout the years, the Utah colorectal cancer incidence rate has been consistently lower than the U.S. colorectal cancer rate. In comparison, the Utah endometrial cancer incidence rate has been intermittently higher than the U.S. endometrial cancer rate.

What Is Being Done?

The Utah Cancer Genomics Program (UCGP) collaborates with community organizations and health systems to provide public/provider education, improve referral processes, and improve access to genetic counseling and testing. These organizations reach many populations throughout the state and provide a variety of services. The UCGP holds an annual Request for Proposals (RFP) competitive application process and awards funding to innovative projects that have the potential to drive Policy, Systems, and Environmental change in public awareness of Family Health History and referral to and uptake of appropriate genetic services. This mini-grant enables strong partnerships between the UCGP and health systems, clinics, and community-based organizations and expands the program's reach into the community. In addition, the UCGP participates in the Utah Cancer Action Network (UCAN), a statewide partnership whose goal is to reduce the burden of cancer. The mission of UCAN is to lower cancer incidence and mortality in Utah through collaborative efforts directed toward cancer prevention and control. As a result of this planning process, objectives and strategies have been developed by community partners regarding the early detection of cervical, breast, and colorectal cancers, and separate cancer genomics collaboration opportunities are also available.

Evidence-based Practices

Persons with a family history of colorectal cancer should consult with their health care provider to determine their risk. High-risk individuals should work with their provider to have earlier and more frequent colonoscopies. Individuals diagnosed with Lynch Syndrome should also work with health care professionals to determine family members to contact and consider Cascade Screening.

Health Program Information

In 2014 the Utah Department of Health received funding from the CDC to implement a program focused on addressing the cancer burden associated with hereditary cancer syndromes. The UCGP continues to receive funding from the CDC for surveillance, education, improving access to and referrals to genetic services, and bolstering partnerships with healthcare organizations, non-profit organizations, and other community organizations.