[ad_1]
People with Lynch Syndrome (LS) have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer – estimated at four out of five people -.
Regular screening by colonoscopy and polypectomy to identify precancerous cells has been the primary strategy to detect early colorectal cancer in people with LS and provide appropriate management.
In 2017, NICE released diagnostic guidelines recommending that all people with colorectal cancer be tested for LS. If the test shows that they have LS, they can be followed for other cancers and their close relatives can also be offered a LS test. Updated guidelines recommend that aspirin be an option to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in this group.
Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon, rectum or intestine) is the fourth most common form of disease in the UK, with more than 42,000 new cases diagnosed each year according to Bowel Cancer UK. It is, however, the second largest cancer killer in the UK, with 44 deaths each day.
Dr. Paul Chrisp, Director of the NICE Center for Guidelines, said: "The independent committee reviewed the results of a multi-country randomized controlled trial that indicated that taking aspirin daily for more than two years reduces the risk of colorectal cancer in people with Lynch Syndrome..
"Although the use of long-term aspirin carries risks, the committee agreed that the benefits would probably outweigh the possible drawbacks..
"It is important that clinicians and patients discuss the disadvantages and potential benefits of long-term use of aspirin so that an informed decision can be made.. "
This updated guideline also includes a recommendation for clinicians to consider chemotherapy before surgery (called neoadjuvant chemotherapy) in people with the most severe form of colon cancer. The committee's recommendation was based on evidence that it improved survival.
A consultation has now begun on the recommendations contained in the guideline at nice.org.uk
-
The draft guidelines will be available at 00:01 from Friday 2 August 2019.
Source link
