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Colon cancer risk factors: What increases your chances?
Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common cancers in the UK and worldwide. Understanding the risk factors of colon cancer is vital for effective prevention, early diagnosis, and improved treatment outcomes.
Key risk factors include age, family history, genetics, diet, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption. With the increasing incidence of colon cancer, especially among younger adults, awareness of these risk factors can help individuals reduce their chances of developing this serious disease. Regular screening and lifestyle changes remain the most effective ways to lower your risk.
Non-modifiable risk factors of colon cancer
These are risk factors beyond your control but important to be aware of:
1. Age
The risk of developing colon cancer rises significantly with age, particularly after the age of 50. This is because the genetic mutations that lead to cancer accumulate over time. In the UK, the majority of colon cancer cases are diagnosed in people aged 60 and above. However, there is a concerning rise in incidence among younger adults under 50.
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2. Family history and genetics
A family history of colon cancer or colorectal polyps substantially increases your risk. If one or more close relatives (parents, siblings, or children) have had colon cancer, your chances of developing the disease double or even triple compared to the general population.
Certain inherited genetic conditions can drastically increase risk:
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare hereditary syndrome that causes hundreds to thousands of polyps to develop in the colon during teenage years or early adulthood. Without surgical intervention, nearly all individuals with FAP will develop colon cancer by the age of 40.
Lynch syndrome (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer - HNPCC) is the most common inherited cause of colon cancer. It raises risk not only for colon cancer but also for other cancers such as endometrial, ovarian, and stomach cancer. Individuals with Lynch syndrome often develop colon cancer at a younger age than typical cases.
3. Personal history of polyps or cancer
If you have had colon polyps removed, especially adenomatous polyps (which have the potential to turn cancerous), your risk of developing colon cancer is higher than average.
Similarly, if you've previously been treated for colon cancer, you remain at increased risk of developing new cancers in other parts of the colon or rectum. Regular follow-up colonoscopies are essential for early detection.
4. Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
Chronic inflammatory bowel conditions, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, cause long-term inflammation of the colon lining. This persistent inflammation can lead to DNA damage in colon cells, increasing cancer risk.
The longer you have IBD, and the more extensive the colon involvement, the higher your risk becomes.
5. Ethnicity
Certain ethnic groups have higher incidences of colon cancer. In the UK and worldwide, people of African descent tend to have higher rates of colon cancer compared to other populations. Understanding your ethnic background can help inform personalised screening recommendations.
Modifiable risk factors of colon cancer
While the above factors cannot be changed, many lifestyle-related risks can be managed or avoided:
1. Diet
Diet plays a crucial role in colon cancer risk.
Numerous studies link diets high in red and processed meats (such as beef, pork, sausages, bacon, and deli meats) with an increased risk of colon cancer. These meats contain carcinogenic compounds formed during processing or cooking at high temperatures. Conversely, diets rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains are associated with a lower risk.
2. Physical inactivity
A sedentary lifestyle is linked to higher colon cancer risk.
Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy body weight, improves digestion, reduces inflammation, and positively influences hormone levels, all factors that contribute to cancer prevention.
Studies show that adults who engage in moderate to vigorous exercise at least 150 minutes per week have a significantly lower risk of colon cancer compared to inactive individuals. Incorporating daily walks, cycling, swimming, or gym workouts can make a real difference.
3. Obesity
Being overweight or obese is strongly associated with an increased risk of colon cancer, as well as worse outcomes after diagnosis. Excess body fat can lead to chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and changes in hormone levels, all of which contribute to the development and progression of cancer. Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) through diet and exercise is a key preventive measure.
4. Smoking
Tobacco use is not just linked to lung cancer, it also significantly increases the risk of colon and rectal cancers.
Carcinogens in cigarette smoke can affect the colon lining directly or indirectly through systemic inflammation and immune suppression. Long-term smokers have a higher risk, and quitting smoking can reduce this risk over time.
5. Type 2 diabetes
Individuals with type 2 diabetes have a moderately increased risk of colon cancer, likely due to factors such as insulin resistance, high blood sugar levels, and associated obesity. Good control of blood glucose levels and managing diabetes effectively can help mitigate this risk.
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