Which cancers are linked to Lynch syndrome?

Lynch syndrome most often raises the risk of colorectal cancer, which is cancer of the colon or rectum, and endometrial (uterine) cancer, which is cancer of the lining of the uterus.

It can also raise the risk of some other cancers, such as ovarian and stomach cancer. A defining feature, described by the National Cancer Institute, is that these cancers often appear at younger ages than they would in the general population.

Having Lynch syndrome raises risk but does not make cancer certain. Knowing about it lets a care team use earlier and more frequent screening — such as colonoscopy, which can find and remove polyps before they become cancer. A doctor or genetic counselor can tailor a screening plan to the specific gene involved and a person's history.