Understanding the Risk Factors for Colon Cancer
Colon cancer, often grouped with rectal cancer as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common cancers in the United States. While anyone can develop colon cancer, certain risk factors can increase a person’s chances. A risk factor is anything that raises the likelihood of developing a disease. Some risk factors cannot be changed, while others are linked to lifestyle and may be reduced.
Risk Factors You Cannot Change
Some risk factors are outside of your control, but knowing them can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about screening.
Age: Most cases of colon cancer occur in people over age 50, although rates are increasing in younger adults.
Personal Medical History: A history of colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increases risk.
Family History and Genetics: Having a close relative with colon cancer or certain inherited genetic conditions can raise risk, even if you feel healthy.
Race and Ethnicity: African American, American Indian, and Alaska Native populations have higher rates of colon cancer.
Sex at Birth: Men are slightly more likely than women to develop and die from colon cancer.
Lifestyle-Related Risk Factors
Many colon cancer risk factors are linked to everyday habits. Making healthier choices can help lower risk.
Smoking: Long-term tobacco use increases the risk of colon cancer and precancerous polyps.
Alcohol Use: Regular or heavy alcohol consumption is associated with higher risk.
Diet: Diets high in red and processed meats and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may increase risk.
Physical Inactivity: Not getting enough physical activity is linked to a higher risk of colon cancer.
Excess Body Weight: Being overweight or obese, especially with weight carried around the abdomen, increases risk.
Why Knowing Your Risk Matters
While you cannot change factors like age or family history, many lifestyle-related risks can be reduced. Maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, eating a balanced diet, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol all support colon health.
Most importantly, regular screening saves lives. Screening can find precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer and can detect colon cancer early when it is most treatable.
Understanding your risk is the first step toward prevention and early detection. If you are unsure when to start screening, talk with your healthcare provider and take action for your health.
Source: American Cancer Society