Both parents of a relative of mine were diagnosed to have colon cancer. Knowing that she is most probably pre-disposed to developing the disease, she is constantly plagued with worry as to whether she'd develop (colon) cancer as well. Recent developments in genetic testing for cancer may provide her the answers she's looking for.

Scientists from the Johns Hopkins University have successfully modified a blood test originally meant to detect mutant DNA in blood plasma to screen for cancer-related genes.

Using that technique, the researchers found elevated levels of mutated adenomatous polyposis coli gene in the plasma of patients with advanced-stage colorectal cancers. Mutant genes also were detected in more than 60 percent of patients with early-stage cancers.

Adenomatous polyps of the colon (APC), also referred to as Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a genetic disorder characterized by the presence of hundreds to thousands of adenomatous polyps throughout the colon. These polyps are typical of colon cancer.

The only question that remains is whether such a test will make it to market in time for her, and how much such a diagnostic test will cost. Read the full report from Science Daily.

Pointer: Genetics and Public Health Blog.