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Who is at risk for colorectal cancer?
Every one of us is at risk for colorectal
cancer. One out of every 50 people, or 2% of the population, will get colorectal
cancer. Most people who develop colorectal cancer have no particular risk
factors.
Although the exact cause for the development of precancerous colon polyps
that lead to colorectal cancer is not known, there are some factors that
increase a person’s risk of developing colorectal polyps and cancer. These
risk factors include:
Age. The
risk of developing colorectal polyps and cancer increases as we age.
Precancerous polyps are common in people over 50 and can affect 40% of people
over the age of 60. Colorectal cancer that develops from precancerous polyps is
usually seen in people over the age of 60 however it can develop in younger
people.
Gender.
Women and men are at equal risk for the development of colorectal polyps and
cancer.
Diet. A
diet high in fat and calories and low in fiber, fruits and vegetables has been
linked to a greater risk of developing colorectal cancer.
- Polyps. There
are a variety of polyps that can form on the inner wall of the colon
or rectum. The only type of polyp that can turn into colorectal cancer is
the one called an adenoma. Adenomas are precancerous polyps that are
considered precursors, or the first step toward colon and rectal cancer. A
rare, inherited condition called familial polyposis causes hundreds
of adenomas to form in the colon and rectum. Unless treated, familial
polyposis is almost certain to lead to colorectal cancer.
- Inflammatory bowel disease.
Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s colitis are conditions in which the lining
of the colon becomes inflamed. People with these conditions, when present
for more than seven years and affecting a large portion of the colon are at
greater risk for developing colorectal cancer.
- Personal history.
Research shows that some women who have a history of ovarian, or uterine
cancer, especially at a young age have a somewhat increased risk of
developing colorectal cancer. Also, a person who already has had colorectal
adenomas or cancer may develop the disease a second time.
Family history.
Parents, siblings, and children of a person who has had colorectal adenomas or
cancer are at least 2-3 times more likely to develop colorectal cancer
themselves. If many family members have had colorectal cancer, the risk
increases even more. A family history of familial adenomatous polyposis, or
hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer also increases the risk
substantially.
Lifestyle factors.
You may be at increased risk for developing colorectal cancer if you drink
alcohol, smoke, don’t get enough exercise, and if you are overweight.
Having one or more of these risk factors does not guarantee that you will
develop colorectal cancer. However, you should talk about these risk factors
with your doctor. He or she may be able to suggest ways to reduce your chances
of developing colorectal cancer.
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