Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors

Other than skin cancer, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer found in men and women in the United States. But it has the second highest cancer death rate in the country, contributing to at least 10 percent of all cancer deaths. Colorectal cancer occurs most often in people over the age of 50, which is why everyone over 50 should be screened. While the exact cause of most colorectal cancer is not known, there are certain known risk factors that increase a person's chances of getting this disease, including:

Age: Your chance of having colorectal cancer goes up after age 50.

Having had a history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps: Polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon and common in people over 50. Polyps are pre-cancerous and are always removed when found.

Having a history of certain conditions in the intestine: Developing ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease increases the risk of colorectal cancer.

Family History: Colon cancer may occur in families with hereditary cancer syndromes that tend to occur before age 55.

Diet, Exercise and Weight: A diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. People who are not active and/or are overweight have a higher risk of colorectal cancer.

Smoking and Alcohol:  Colorectal cancer occurs more often in smokers than in non-smokers. Heavy use of alcohol has also been linked to colorectal cancer.

Other facts: African Americans are at higher risk of getting and dying from colorectal cancer. Washington, DC has the highest mortality (death) rate from colorectal cancer. Early detection significantly reduces mortality.