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IBD Study Leads to Life-Saving Cancer Diagnosis
28 Aug
Summary
- Lynch syndrome diagnosis prompted life-saving cancer detection.
- Preventive hysterectomy revealed early-stage womb cancer.
- Research study participant's life was saved by genetic testing.
Victoria Thurston, 51, a mother of five from Martlesham, Suffolk, has credited her participation in an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) research study with saving her life. In 2025, genetic testing as part of the study revealed she has Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition significantly increasing cancer risk.
Following this discovery, Thurston opted for a preventive hysterectomy. Preparations for this surgery unexpectedly led to the detection of womb cancer in its early stages. She described the experience as frightening but praised the medical team for their reassurance and early diagnosis.
Thurston had previously been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis in 2017 after experiencing IBD symptoms. Her condition was extensive, requiring multiple surgeries, including the removal of her large intestine. She volunteered for the NIHR BioResource and NHS Genomic Medicine Services study to aid others.
Lynch syndrome increases the likelihood of developing several cancers, including those of the bowel, womb, ovaries, stomach, and pancreas. Approximately 60% of women with this syndrome develop womb cancer. Due to its inherited nature, Thurston's children are eligible for genetic testing.
