Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the large intestine and rectum. For any cancer factors exist that can increase the chance of a patient getting the disease. These factors are called risk factors, states the American Cancer Society. For colon cancer, numerous risk factors have been established. Patients with one or more of these factors should seek regular medical screening. This will ensure that if colorectal cancer does develop, patients will receive early and effective treatment.
Age
Age remains one of the most important risk factors for colorectal cancer. Approximately, 90 percent of all cases of colon cancer occur in people older than 50, according to the Mayo Clinic website. Colorectal cancer can occur in younger patients, but it proves much less common. Patients 50 and older should undergo regular screening for the cancer.
Personal History of Certain Diseases
A history of certain diseases presents a risk for developing colorectal cancer, reports the American Cancer Society. Patients who have suffered from colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer, or inflammatory bowel disease have an increased risk of developing colon cancer. Polyps are outgrowths of colon tissue that can become cancerous, especially if the polyps were large or numerous.
A previous bout of colorectal cancer that has been cured can still present a risk for future colon cancer. This becomes particularly true for patients who contracted the disease when they were adolescents or young adults.
Inflammatory bowel disease includes ulcerative colitis and Crohn's Disease, and is characterized by chronic inflammation of the colon. This disease can cause abnormal changes in the cells of the colon, called dysplasia, which is a pre-cancerous condition. Cells in the colon undergoing dysplasia can evolve into colorectal cancer.
Diet
A patient's diet can contribute to the development of colon cancer, states the National Institutes of Health. A diet high in animal fat and low in calcium and fiber can increase the chances of developing colorectal cancer. Diets low in fruits and vegetables also may increase the risk of colon cancer.
Lifestyle Habits
Numerous lifestyle habits that can increase the risk of colorectal cancer including a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking and alcohol consumption, states the Mayo Clinic website. Patients can eliminate all of these risk factors by making lifestyle changes. Patients who get regular physical activity, remain within normal weight limits and avoid cigarettes and alcohol have a decreased chance of developing colorectal cancer.
