Colon cancer is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer in the world. Men are more likely to develop colon cancer compared to women. The risk of developing colon cancer increases with age.

It is essential to understand the factors that make men more vulnerable to colon cancer.

Age

As men age, the risk of developing colon cancer increases. In most cases, colon cancer develops in people over the age of 50. Men over 50 years old should get regular colon cancer screening tests to detect any signs of cancer early on.

Lifestyle Choices

Men who lead unhealthy lifestyles are more vulnerable to colon cancer. People who consume a diet that is high in red meat, processed food, and fat have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Men who smoke and consume alcohol excessively have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.

Obesity

Obesity is a significant risk factor for colon cancer, especially in men. Obese individuals have a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Men with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher are considered clinically obese and are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer than men with a lower BMI.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, increases the risk of colon cancer. Men suffering from inflammatory bowel disease need to get regular colon cancer screenings.

The doctor can monitor any changes in the colon and detect any signs of cancer early on.

Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Familial adenomatous polyposis is a rare genetic disorder that increases the risk of developing colon cancer. Men with this condition develop multiple polyps in the colon that can eventually turn into cancer.

Those with this condition need to get regular colon cancer screenings throughout their life.

Radiation

Men who have received abdominal or pelvic radiation for other medical conditions, such as prostate cancer, have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.

Diabetes

Men with diabetes have an increased risk of developing colon cancer. A study found that people with diabetes have a 38% higher risk of developing colon cancer compared to people without diabetes.

Elevated insulin and blood glucose levels, which are common in people with diabetes, may play a role in the development of colon cancer.

Physical Inactivity

Men who lead sedentary lifestyles and do not engage in regular physical activity have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.

Exercise can help reduce the risk of colon cancer, and men are encouraged to engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity most days of the week.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a prevalent disease that affects men more than women.

Age, lifestyle choices, obesity, inflammatory bowel disease, familial adenomatous polyposis, radiation, diabetes, and physical inactivity are the significant risk factors that make men more vulnerable to colon cancer. Regular colon cancer screening is essential for early detection and treatment of the disease.