Postby nhoeft » Mon Feb 26, 2007 8:49 pm
I was diagnosed with colon cancer last November. I had DNA testing done after having genetic counciling in December since I was the third sibling to get colon cancer by age 45. (also my father had it at 46). The results came back positive that I have the gene defect and HNPCC. My children will be tested at age 18 as well as my nephews and other siblings. It's a whole different ball game for HNPCC. The testing schedule is different than others with colon cancer. PLEASE....if you suspect at all that you may have HNPCC you need to tell your doctor and push for genetic testing to be done. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center has an incredible facility: The Hillman Cancer Center. The doctor's there are very aware of HNPCC and they have genetic councelors there that can help you find the right medical staff near where you live. They have a data base across the country they can access and tell you where to seek the right help. It's much different than the usual recommendations for further testing after the cancer is gone. Not just your colon is at risk with HNPCC. Many other organs have a high risk of cancer as well and require regular testing. I hope you talk to your doctor. And you may need to be very persistent. Just keep pushing to be tested if you think you qualify. It's important to get the word out to your whole family if you have it. Good luck and let me know if you need any more info.