Colon cancer is the growth of cancerous tumors in the large intestine or colon. Colorectal cancer, often appearing with rectal cancer, is one of the most common cancers. The American Cancer Society, ACS, estimates that one in 23 men and 1 in 25 women have this type of cancer. While naturally, these statistics are alarming, understanding the risk factors enables one to decide whether they need a screening or not.

1. Advanced age
While colon cancer can affect people of all ages, it is most common in those older than 50 years. In recent years, doctors have identified this cancer in an increasing number of people in their 20s and 30s. But they are unable to explain why. Age is a fixed risk factor and one that cannot be altered. Hence, it is essential to consider other risk factors and decide whether to get screened or not.

2. Family history
Colon cancer is more prevalent in individuals whose family members had or have the disease. And they are even more likely to develop the disease if more than one family member has cancer in the colon or rectum. Statistics show one in three people who develop colorectal cancer has a family member with the condition. Inherited syndromes related to polyps, like familial adenomatous polyposis, or FAP, increase the risk of colon cancer. Lynch syndrome and other gene mutations that are heritable also put people at higher risk for the disease. Another family factor is race. Studies indicate that African-Americans are more at risk of colon cancer than others.

3. Intestinal polyps
Polyps in the colon predispose people to colon cancer. Polyps are non-cancerous benign clumps of cells that can develop into cancers at a later time. Polyps on their own do not produce any symptoms or sometimes could manifest few and mild symptoms. Those who have polyps need to screen themselves more often. Also, doctors might recommend removing these polyps before they turn into cancerous tumors.

4. Inflammatory intestinal conditions
Some chronic inflammatory disorders of the colon like ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) increase the risk of colon cancer. When IBD is left untreated, over some time, dysplasia develops. This is a condition that causes abnormal growth in the lining of the colon or rectum, which can at any time turn cancerous. If one has IBD or other inflammatory diseases, they should get screened more, even if they are young. Remember, however, irritable bowel syndrome, IBS, does not increase the risk of colon cancer.

5. Other factors
Colon cancer is associated with diets low in fiber, high in fat and calories, and high in red and processed meat. People with a sedentary lifestyle and people who do not get regular physical activity are also at greater risk. Diabetes, insulin resistance, and obesity also exacerbate the chance of developing this kind of cancer. If one smokes and drinks alcohol, they should consider frequent screening for colon cancer. People who undergo radiation therapy for other types of cancer also have an increased risk of developing colon cancer.