While Lynch syndrome increases the risk of cancer for its carriers, it also provides a unique opportunity to understand disease mechanisms. It is likely that the first preventive cancer vaccine will be specifically developed against cancers caused by Lynch syndrome.
From the individual’s perspective, Lynch syndrome and its prevalence in the population is not a positive thing, but from the research standpoint it is, meaning that the disease can also benefit patients.
“Currently, there is intense development work on cancer-preventive vaccines, which will soon be tested in large patient groups. The most progress has been made with cancers linked to Lynch syndrome. It will be a major breakthrough when we can prevent cancers that we know are likely to develop,” Seppälä says.
In Lynch syndrome, identifying carriers of the genetic mutation is vital because healthcare interventions can greatly benefit these patients. Generally, there needs to be greater awareness in society about the importance of molecular profiling.
Lynch Syndrome Ireland 