Inherited mutations increase an individual's risk of one or more types of cancer and are passed on from parents to children. APC, EPCAM, MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6 are the most common colorectal cancer risk genes.

Genetic testing uses saliva or blood to evaluate and analyze a patient's DNA. Genetic testing helps detect mutations or changes in a single gene (or several genes) in patients and families at high risk of developing cancer. This article will provide information on some of the mutations and genetic tests commonly used in screening and supporting the diagnosis of uterine and ovarian cancer.