Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in both American men and women, according to the Colon Cancer Alliance. The site states that treatment is most effective when detected early. Recognizing the risk factors and causes--some of which can be prevented--may provide you with the early detection you need.
Family Syndromes
Certain family syndromes, or gene mutations (genes that change), are linked to a small percentage of colon cancers. They can, however, significantly increase a person's chances of developing cancer according to the Mayo Clinic. The two most commonly inherited syndromes linked with colorectal cancer are familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).
FAP is a rare syndrome that results in the development of thousands of polyps (non-cancerous cells) in the lining of both your colon and rectum. If left untreated, your risk of developing colon cancer before the age of 40 increases greatly. HNPCC not only increases the risk of colon cancer, but other cancers as well explains the Mayo Clinic. Those with this syndrome tend to develop colorectal cancer prior to the age of 50.
Age
Both the Mayo Clinic and the American Cancer Society concur that age is a risk factor of colorectal cancer. The Mayo Clinic states that approximately 90 percent of those diagnosed with this cancer are over the age of 50. The American Cancer Society agrees, stating that nine out of 10 people with this disease are over the age of 50. While younger people can develop this disease, it happens less frequently.
Family History of Polyps
Those with a family history of either polyps or colon cancer have an increased risk of developing the disease themselves. This includes a parent or sibling with the cancer. The Mayo Clinic further states that your risk is greater if more than one parent or family member is diagnosed. For some, it doesn't have to be a genetic connection, such as those who are adopted. It can merely be subjection to the same environmental factors or lifestyle habits.
Diet
The American Cancer Society explains that a diet high in fat and red meats can increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. Processed meats such as bologna, hot dogs and lunch meat increase your risk as well. A diet high in fruits and vegetables has been linked with a decreased risk of this disease.
Obesity
If you are overweight, not only do you have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer, but your risk of dying from this disease is greater than that of someone who is of normal weight, explains the Mayo Clinic. Exercise plays an important role in your risk level of this cancer as well. Both the Mayo Clinic and the American Cancer Society state that the more exercise you get, the lower your risk may be. A sedentary lifestyle might actually go hand-in-hand with another risk factor--obesity.
