Colon cancer is a disease that affects both young and old, and while it is often associated with older adults, the number of young adults diagnosed with the disease is increasing.

According to recent studies, one in seven colon cancer patients are under the age of 50. This is particularly concerning since people under 50 often do not undergo screening, which means the disease may go undetected until it has progressed to a more advanced stage.

: Here are five risk-increasing factors for colon cancer in young adults

1. Family history of colon cancer or colorectal polyps

A family history of colon cancer or colorectal polyps can increase your risk of developing the disease. If a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) has been diagnosed with colon cancer, your risk of developing the disease doubles.

If multiple family members have been affected, your risk is even higher. In addition, if you have a family history of inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), your risk of developing colon cancer is significantly increased.

2. Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is a chronic condition that causes inflammation in the digestive tract.

People with IBD have an increased risk of developing colon cancer, particularly if the disease affects a large area of the colon and has been present for a long time. In fact, people with IBD are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer than the general population, and they may need to undergo colonoscopies more frequently to detect any signs of the disease.

3. Unhealthy lifestyle habits

Unhealthy lifestyle habits can increase your risk of developing colon cancer.

Factors such as a diet high in red and processed meat, low in fruits and vegetables, a lack of physical activity, and obesity have all been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. In addition, smoking and heavy alcohol use can also increase your risk of developing the disease.

4. Type 2 diabetes

Recent studies have shown a link between type 2 diabetes and an increased risk of colon cancer.

Type 2 diabetes is a condition that affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, and it has been linked to an increased risk of several other types of cancer as well. While researchers are still investigating the link between type 2 diabetes and colon cancer, it is important for people with the condition to be aware of their increased risk and undergo regular screening.

5. Exposure to certain chemicals

Exposure to certain chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of developing colon cancer.

For example, people who work in the chemical industry or who are exposed to certain chemicals in their environment, such as benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), may have a higher risk of colon cancer. It is important to be aware of any potential chemical exposures and to take steps to minimize your exposure if possible.

While these risk factors do not guarantee that someone will develop colon cancer, they should be taken seriously and people with these factors should undergo regular screening for the disease.

Early detection is key to successful treatment and survival.