Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine; rectal cancer is cancer of the last few inches of the colon. Due to their proximity, the medical community combine the two, referring to them as colorectal cancer. No specific cause exists as of yet, but a number of risk factors have been identified; risk factors that may just save a life should people choose to heed them as warnings.
Age
The risk of colon cancer increases after the age of 50, as the American Cancer Society states that more than nine out of 10 people with colon cancer are over the age of 50, making age an uncontrollable risk factor. The Mayo Clinic concurs, stating that approximately 90 percent of those who receive a diagnosis are older than 50.
Genetics
A person's risk of developing colon cancer increases when close relatives, such as a parent, sibling or child, previously had this disease. This is especially true if the relative had the disease at a younger age.
Previous History
Medial history plays a large role as a risk factor for colon cancer. A history of polyps--noncancerous clumps of cells--or colorectal cancer makes a person more prone to recurring cancer in the colon, rectum or both.
Diet
Diets low in fiber and high in fat--especially fat from red and processed meats--may increase a person's risk of developing colon cancer in the future. The American Cancer Society goes on to explain that frying, broiling or grilling meats can create chemicals that increase the risk of colon cancer as well. On the other hand, a diet high in fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of colon cancer.
Bowel Disease
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, both forms of inflammatory bowel disease, cause an inflammation of the colon over a long period of time; this may increase the risk of colon cancer. If a person suffers from one of these diseases, their doctor may want them to undergo colon screenings more frequently.
Family Syndromes
Family syndromes are a group of symptoms that are inherited and have a link to colon cancer. The two most common syndromes are familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer. Either of these syndromes may be cause for a person to undergo screening for colon cancer at a younger age, as they increase the risk of this disease.
