Work

Prevention strategies for hereditary gynaecological cancer in Lynch syndrome

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Lynch syndrome is a hereditary cancer predisposition condition associated with an elevated lifetime risk of colorectal, endometrial, ovarian, and several other malignancies. This review provides an updated overview of evidence-based prevention strategies for gynaecological cancers in patients with Lynch syndrome. Risk-reducing hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy is the most effective intervention for lowering cancer incidence and mortality, but is associated with surgical morbidity and requires careful consideration of reproductive plans and the adverse consequences of premature menopause. Gynaecological surveillance using transvaginal ultrasound and endometrial biopsy is widely implemented as an alternative; however, available evidence is heterogeneous and indicates no benefit in reducing mortality. Novel approaches—such as biomarker-based detection using DNA methylation analysis of cervicovaginal samples, liquid biopsy techniques, and microbiome profiling—offer promising, non-invasive alternatives but require prospective validation in Lynch-specific populations. Chemoprevention with hormonal agents and aspirin may reduce cancer risk, while vaccine-based prevention strategies are under active investigation. Adoption of a healthy lifestyle is recommended for overall health, although its impact on gynaecological cancer risk in Lynch syndrome remains uncertain. Future research should prioritise prospective trials to establish optimal cancer prevention protocols, validate novel biomarkers and preventive cancer vaccine strategies, and evaluate the long-term effectiveness, acceptability, and cost-effectiveness of combined preventive approaches to improve outcomes in this high hereditary-risk population.

Source: Familial Cancer

DOI: 10.1007/s10689-026-00548-1

Authors: Kevin J. J. Kwinten, Jean-Ellen Johnson, Anne M. van Altena, Nicoline Hoogerbrugge, Emma J. Davidson, Joanne A. de Hullu