Colorectal cancer prevention in Lynch Syndrome: current perspectives and future challenges

Authors

  • Leonardo José de Oliveira Marinho
  • Flaubert Sena de Medeiros Filho
  • Carla Cendi de Freitas Moreira
  • Andreia Almeida Lopes
  • Beatriz Di Ciero Miranda Vieira
  • Annubia Freitas Maia
  • Matheus Corrêa Félix
  • Isaac Matheus Bezerra Gurgel
  • Hudson Paulinelly da Câmara Melo
  • Rodolfo de Oliveira Lobo
  • Vinícius Guedes Lima Bahia
  • Miguel Adelino da Silva Filho
  • Francisco Gabriel Mesquita Lima
  • Diana Paixão Moreira Sousa
  • Júlia Martins Marques Rocha
  • Henrique Sousa Costa
  • Ingrid Freitas Lins Cruz
  • Samuel Carvalho Vasconcelos
  • Pedro Schmitt Martins Paiva Matos
  • Emanuel Cabral Costa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.34119/bjhrv8n1-003

Keywords:

Lynch syndrome, colorectal cancer, genetic biomarkers

Abstract

Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality globally, with Lynch Syndrome (LS) as one of the primary hereditary risk factors. LS, caused by mutations in mismatch repair (MMR) genes, significantly increases CRC risk, particularly through microsatellite instability. This review discusses the main preventive strategies for CRC in LS patients, focusing on pharmacological interventions, personalized surveillance, and modifiable risk factors. Methods: A systematic review of literature published from 2020 to 2024 was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Keywords included "Lynch Syndrome," "Colorectal Cancer," "Cancer Prevention," and "Genetic Screening." Studies were selected based on relevance, language, and focus on LS prevention. Results: Key strategies for CRC prevention in LS include frequent colonoscopic surveillance, aspirin-based chemoprevention, and lifestyle modifications. Evidence supports colonoscopies every 1-2 years, especially in MLH1 and MSH2 mutation carriers. Aspirin has shown promise in reducing CRC incidence, though optimal dosages remain debated. Emerging approaches such as immunotherapy and biomarker-based surveillance may offer personalized prevention. Conclusion: Effective prevention of CRC in LS requires a multifaceted approach, including high-quality surveillance, targeted pharmacological interventions, and emerging molecular techniques. Future research should focus on optimizing dosage strategies, identifying genetic markers for tailored prevention, and addressing the psychological impacts of genetic testing.

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Published

01/03/2025

How to Cite

MARINHO, L. J. de O.; FILHO, F. S. de M.; MOREIRA, C. C. de F.; LOPES, A. A.; VIEIRA, B. D. C. M.; MAIA, A. F.; FÉLIX, M. C.; GURGEL, I. M. B.; MELO, H. P. da C.; LOBO, R. de O.; BAHIA, V. G. L.; FILHO, M. A. da S.; LIMA, F. G. M.; SOUSA, D. P. M.; ROCHA, J. M. M.; COSTA, H. S.; CRUZ, I. F. L.; VASCONCELOS, S. C.; MATOS, P. S. M. P.; COSTA, E. C. Colorectal cancer prevention in Lynch Syndrome: current perspectives and future challenges. Brazilian Journal of Health Review, [S. l.], v. 8, n. 1, p. e76382, 2025. DOI: 10.34119/bjhrv8n1-003. Disponível em: https://ojs.brazilianjournals.com.br/ojs/index.php/BJHR/article/view/76382. Acesso em: 17 oct. 2026.

Issue

Vol. 8 No. 1 (2025)

Section

Original Papers