Randall W. Burt, M.D., Medical Director

Scientists from Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah and the Cancer Genetics Network are conducting research on the causes of colon cancer. Research has shown that some colon cancers are inherited (passed from generation to generation) and can be detected by studying the DNA (genetic material) in blood or tissue samples. In addition, life activities (environmental factors) can influence development of colon cancer. The goal of this project is to identify new genes and environmental factors that cause colon cancer within families. This will be done by comparing genetic markers of DNA and questionnaire information from brothers and sisters who have colon cancer to identify similarities and differences in genetic and environmental patterns. A nationwide total of about 4000 individuals will be asked to participate

You may be eligible to participate in this study if you and one of your siblings have had cancer or precancerous polyps (high grade dysplasia) of the colon or rectum.

For More Information:

Inheritance of Colon Cancer: a Sibling Pair Study
Huntsman Cancer Institute
University of Utah
2000 Circle of Hope
Salt Lake City UT 84112

Telephone: 801-581-4066
Toll free: 877-585-0473

If you are not in the Utah region, please click here for a national list of participating centers.