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Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer

 

 

The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with advancing age. More than 90% of cases occur in people aged 50 or older.  Other risk factors include having:

  • Inflammatory bowel disease.

  • A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps.

  • A genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch syndrome).

 

Lifestyle factors that may contribute to increased risk of colorectal cancer include:

  • Lack of regular physical activity.

  • Low fruit and vegetable intake.

  • A low-fiber and high-fat diet.

  • Overweight and obesity.

  • Alcohol consumption.

  • Tobacco use.

 

References:  http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/basic_info/risk_factors.htm

 

Don't wait for symptoms to occur. Your doctor will tell you whether a simple at-home test or a colonoscopy is appropriate. Both are fully or partially covered by most medical insurance plans.