Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)

Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) is a hereditary condition characterized by the development of hundreds to thousands of precancerous polyps in the colon and rectum, usually during teenage years or early adulthood. If left untreated, these polyps have a near-100% risk of progressing to colorectal cancer. FAP arises from mutations in the APC gene, which normally helps regulate cell growth. It often runs in families, so a family history is important. Management typically involves regular screening, closer surveillance, and preventive measures such as surgery to remove the colon, significantly reducing cancer risk.