STK11 (Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome): Cancer Risks
Cancer Risk Associated with Inherited Mutations
If you have tested positive for an mutation, we recommend speaking with a genetics expert who can look at your personal and family history of cancer, and can help you decide on a plan for managing your risk.
Experts at the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) created guidelines which estimate the cancer risks for people with mutations. These cancer risk estimates are updated based on the latest research and include the following:
Cancer Type |
Lifetime Risk with STK11 Mutation |
Lifetime Risk in General Population |
Breast cancer in women (people assigned female at birth) |
32 - 54% |
12.5% |
Colorectal |
39% |
4.1% |
Gastric |
29% |
0.8% |
Ovarian sex cord tumors (may be cancer or benign) |
20% or higher |
1.1% |
Pancreatic |
11 - 36% |
1.5% |
Gastric |
5 - 7% |
0.8% |
Small bowel |
13% |
0.3% |
Lung |
7 - 17% |
6% |
Cervical cancer |
10% or higher |
No data |
Endometrial |
9% |
3.1% |
Testicular (Sertoli cell tumor) |
9% |
Less than 1% |
Source: NCCN: Genetic/Familiar High-Risk Assessment: Colorectal, Endometrial, Gastric; v. 3, 2024. |
It is important to note that cancer risks are estimates over the course of a person's lifetime. Your lifetime risk and risk over the next five years will vary depending on:
- current age
- gender
- specific mutation
- personal and family health history
- diet, exercise, lifestyle and other factors