The rate of HFE c.845G>A (p.Cys282Tyr) homozygotes in the CRC group reinforces a previously reported, but relatively unexplored, association between hemochromatosis and CRC.
In addition, in the stratified analysis by cancer type, an increased risk was identified in hepatocellular carcinoma and breast cancer in C282Y polymorphism, as well as pancreatic cancer in H63D polymorphism, whereas a decreased risk of colorectal cancer was identified in C282Y polymorphism.
In fact, a minority of C282Y homozygotes develop classical 'iron overload disease', although it has recently emerged that the disorder may predispose to breast and colorectal cancer.
Whereas a recent study reported an increased risk of colorectal cancer associated with any HFE germ line mutation (C282Y or H63D), other investigators have concluded there is no increased risk, or that any increase is dependent on polymorphisms in HFE-interacting genes such as the transferrin receptor (TFR).
The Cys282Tyr mutation is not associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer in postmenopausal women, although in combination with smoking a slightly increased risk cannot be excluded.