Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States.

While the exact cause of colon cancer is still unknown, there are certain risk factors that have been found to increase a person’s chances of developing this disease.

In this article, we will explore some of the most common risk factors associated with colon cancer.

Familial and Genetic Factors

One of the most significant risk factors for colon cancer is having a family history of the disease.

Individuals with a first-degree relative (such as a parent, sibling, or child) who has had colon cancer are at an increased risk of developing the disease themselves. Additionally, hereditary conditions such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) can greatly increase a person’s chances of developing colon cancer.

Age

Another significant risk factor for colon cancer is age. While colorectal cancer can affect people of any age, it is more commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 50.

This is why regular colon cancer screenings are recommended for individuals in this age group.

Race and Ethnicity

Studies have shown that individuals of African American and Ashkenazi Jewish descent are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer than other racial and ethnic groups. This increased risk may be due to both genetic and environmental factors.

Diet and Lifestyle Factors

There are several diet and lifestyle factors that have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. These include:.

A diet high in red and processed meats
A diet low in fruits and vegetables
Sedentary lifestyle
Obesity
Smoking
Heavy alcohol consumption

While these factors may not directly cause colon cancer, they can increase a person’s overall risk of developing the disease.

Medical Factors

There are also certain medical factors that can increase a person’s risk of developing colon cancer. These include:.

A history of inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
A history of colorectal polyps
A personal history of breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer
A history of radiation therapy to the abdomen or pelvis

If you have any of these medical factors, it is important to talk to your doctor about your risk of developing colon cancer.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a serious disease that can be life-threatening if not detected and treated early.

While the exact cause of colon cancer is still unknown, there are several risk factors that have been found to increase a person’s chances of developing the disease. By understanding these risk factors and taking steps to reduce your risk, you can help protect yourself from colon cancer.