3 Risk Factors for Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is the third most prevalent type of cancer. It is a type of cancer that attacks the large intestines. The large intestines are the final part of the digestive system. Several risk factors can cause colon cancer. These factors can be modifiable and non-modifiable. Here are three risk factors for colon cancer:

·         Family history – This is a risk factor that cannot be changed. If there is someone in your lineage with colorectal cancer, then there are chances that you might be diagnosed with the disease. When you go to the hospital with a colon related problem, your physician is likely to consider your colon cancer family history when making a diagnosis.

·         Age and gender – These are non-modifiable risk factors. People of age above 45 or 50 years are at a higher risk of a diagnosis of colon cancer. Men within that age bracketare at a higher risk than women. People that have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease are more likely to be diagnosed with colon cancer. These risk factors are hard to change, but it is essential that you know about them and focuses more on reducing the risks.

·         Other modifiable risk factors – Risk factors such as obesity, physical exercise, diet, alcohol use, tobacco use, and diabetes can lead to colorectal cancer. These are the primary risk factors that you can easily avoid. Maintaining a diet rich in fiber and reducing processed meat and animal fat will help with your risk of being diagnosed with colorectal cancer. Avoid tobacco and alcohol altogether. Observe your weight and exercise regularly to ensure your body is fit.

It is necessary to identify necessary lifestyle changes that can work for you so that you can reduce the risk of diagnosis of cancer. Cancer can be a killer disease, and it is expensive to treat. Note that prevention is better than the cure.