Lynch syndrome

Lynch Syndrome

Lynch Syndrome: Everything You Need to Know at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City

Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary non‑polyposis colorectal cancer, is a genetic condition that increases the risk of several cancers, including colorectal cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, stomach cancer, kidney cancer and pancreatic cancer.

At Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) in Abu Dhabi, our specialised team of oncologists and clinical geneticists provides comprehensive care for people with Lynch syndrome – from accurate diagnosis to personalised treatment planning and long‑term follow‑ups.

Symptoms and Signs

Symptoms vary depending on the type of cancer a person develops, and may include:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation, or rectal bleeding
• Abdominal pain or discomfort
• Abdominal bloating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue and tiredness

It is important to note that some individuals with Lynch syndrome may have no symptoms at all until cancer is diagnosed.

Causes and Risk Factors

Lynch syndrome is caused by mutations in specific genes – known as DNA repair genes – that play an essential role in repairing DNA damage in cells.

Risk factors include:

• A family history of Lynch syndrome or certain cancers
• A known gene mutation associated with Lynch syndrome

Diagnosis

Lynch syndrome can be diagnosed through:

• Family history
• Genetic testing
• Diagnostic investigations, such as colonoscopy

If you think you may be at risk of Lynch syndrome, it is important to speak to your doctor.

Treatment

There is no cure for Lynch syndrome, but symptoms and risks can be managed. Treatment typically includes surgery to remove tumours, medicines to regulate hormone levels, and radiotherapy or chemotherapy for cancer.

Treatment options include:

• Regular surveillance: Routine tests to detect cancer early, such as colonoscopy, pelvic examination and breast examination
• Risk‑reducing (prophylactic) surgery: Your doctor may recommend removing tissues that are likely to become cancerous, such as a colectomy or oophorectomy
• Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells
• Radiotherapy: To kill cancer cells or reduce their size

Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent Lynch syndrome, but you can take steps to lower cancer risk, including:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Exercising regularly
• Following a healthy diet
• Avoiding smoking
• Drinking alcohol in moderation
• Undergoing regular cancer screening

Contact Us

For more information, please call SSMC on 800 7762 or schedule an appointment here.