INTRODUCTION: It is estimated that 5% of individuals with colon cancer inherited a mutation which increased their risk for the malignancy. Multi-generational family histories are recommended to preliminarily determine genetic risks and initiate referrals for genetic counselling. While women may frequently be assessed for genetic risks associated with breast cancer, it is unclear if GI providers consistently obtain family history in women seeking colon cancer screening. This study evaluated the rates of family histories obtained in women referred for colon cancer screening at a university medical center. METHODS: A retrospective chart review evaluated all women seen by GI providers for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening in the gastroenterology clinic of a university medical center during a 3 month period. Patient age, race, documentation of family history (3 or more generations) was obtained. A confidential database was generated using Microsoft Excel. Statistical analysis using Fisher's Exact Test was performed with significance set at P < 0.05. The study was approved by the institutional IRB. RESULTS: 500 medical records were reviewed. The mean age was 59.6 (range 33–89). Self-reported race/ethnicity included 276 African-American, 123 White, 32 Hispanic, 30 Asian, 20 other and 19 undocumented. 102 (20.4%) had a multi-generational family history. White women were significantly more likely to have a documented 3 generation history compared to all other women (30.08% vs 16.48%), P = 0.0016. African-American compared to white women were less likely to have detailed family histories obtained (17.03% vs 30.08%), P = 0.0050. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrated that multi-generational family histories were not adequately obtained in women by GI providers during colon cancer screening visits. White women compared to all other women more often had detailed family histories documented. Despite African-American women having the highest prevalence of colon cancer among all women in the United States, multi-generational family histories were less frequently obtained. While this study is limited by single institutional design, reliance upon provider documentation and short duration, it provides a foundation for additional research. Increased provider and patient education about the potential significance of family history in colon cancer risk assessment is critical to optimize outcomes.