It is important to tell your parents, brothers and sisters and relatives about your diagnosis, as they have a 1 in 2 chance of having Lynch syndrome. Knowing if you or a family member has Lynch syndrome can help them to take steps to reduce their risk of developing cancer.
If you have children, they also have a 1 in 2 chance of developing Lynch syndrome. You will need to talk to them as well. Deciding how and when to have this conversation can be difficult. Talk to your children using language they understand and, in an age, appropriate way. Children are often more aware of adult worries than we expect. Being open with them can make them feel included and ease their worries.
In general, healthcare providers will not offer genetic testing to people who are under 18, unless there is a concern about childhood cancer.
If you don’t have children but you are considering starting a family and have concerns about the risk of Lynch syndrome, it is important to discuss different options with your healthcare provider and genetic counsellor. They will help you make an informed decision.
Lynch Syndrome Ireland 