Genetic link in colorectal cancer

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

A new study reveals that Ashkenazi Jews may have one of the highest rates of colorectal cancer in the world.
The lifetime risk of colorectal cancer in the general population of the USA is about five to six per cent. But among Ashkenazi Jews it may be as high as nine to 15 per cent, say researchers at the Hereditary Cancer Institute at Creighton University who have made a special study of this ethnic group.

Clinical studies also show that Ashkenazi Jews also have a higher risk of cancer of the ovary, pancreas, stomach and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, overall cancer rates are not higher among Ashkenazi Jews. The study highlights that need to increase awareness of the higher risk of cancer in this ethnic group. Those who have first or second degree relatives with colorectal cancer should have screening from age 35 and repeat it every three years.

Source
Creighton University 8th March 2005