Colon cancer. It sounds scary, right? And the truth is, it can be—especially if it’s not caught early. But here’s something most people don’t realise: many of the risk factors for colon cancer are either preventable or manageable. So, what really increases your chances of developing it? Let’s unpack this together.
Age: Why Risk Rises After 50
Let’s start with something we can’t change—our age.
Colon cancer doesn’t usually appear out of the blue. In fact, it’s more common in people over the age of 50. Why? Because as we age, our cells have had more time to mutate and accumulate damage. That damage can eventually lead to cancer.
But here’s the twist: more and more younger adults are being diagnosed too. According to recent research, rates of colon cancer in people under 50 have been steadily rising—and no one’s entirely sure why. That’s why being aware of symptoms and risk factors matters no matter your age.
Family History and Genetics: Is Colon Cancer in Your DNA?
Do you have a close relative who had colon cancer? If so, your risk could be double—or even more.
Some people inherit genetic mutations that significantly increase their chances of developing colon cancer. These include conditions like:
- Lynch syndrome (also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer)
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
These aren’t just science terms. They’re real risks. People with these inherited conditions can develop cancer at a much younger age.
Genetic counselling and testing can help identify whether you carry these mutations—and help you take early action. Because knowing your risk gives you the power to do something about it.
Personal History of Polyps or Cancer
If you’ve had colon polyps before, especially adenomatous polyps, your risk of colon cancer jumps up a notch. These small growths in the lining of your colon can slowly turn cancerous if not removed.
And if you’ve had colon cancer in the past, unfortunately, that also raises your chance of getting it again.
Think of your colon as a patch of land. If weeds grew once, they’re more likely to grow back. Regular screening and follow-up are your best tools to keep that garden clean.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): The Silent Culprit
Living with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease? Then you already know how tough chronic inflammation can be.
But here’s what’s less known: long-term inflammation of the colon can cause changes at the cellular level—ones that increase cancer risk. The longer you’ve had IBD, the higher the risk.
Regular colonoscopies and working closely with your gastroenterologist can help catch any abnormal changes early. In this case, monitoring is everything.
Diet and Lifestyle: What You Eat Matters
Let’s talk food.
Did you know that eating a lot of red meat or processed meats (like sausages, bacon, ham) is linked to a higher risk of colon cancer? Especially when cooked at high temperatures.
Low-fibre diets don’t help either. Fibre keeps your digestion moving, helps clean out waste, and supports healthy gut bacteria.
On the flip side, a diet rich in:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole grains
- Legumes
…can lower your risk.
Food isn’t just fuel—it’s medicine. And the choices you make at the dinner table every day add up.
Physical Inactivity: Sitting Is the New Smoking?
Have a desk job and spend most evenings on the couch? You’re not alone.
But a sedentary lifestyle has been shown to increase the risk of several cancers—including colon cancer. Why? Because physical activity helps your digestive system stay active, reduces inflammation, and improves insulin sensitivity.
You don’t need to become a marathon runner. Even 30 minutes of brisk walking a day can make a meaningful difference.
So, ask yourself: how can I move more today?
Smoking and Alcohol: A Toxic Combo
We often associate smoking with lung cancer. But the damage doesn’t stop at the lungs.
Smoking can increase the risk of colon and rectal cancer. It also makes treatment outcomes worse.
Heavy alcohol use is another known risk factor. It irritates the lining of the colon and can lead to long-term cellular changes.
If you’re thinking of cutting back—or quitting—know that your body starts healing almost immediately. And your colon will thank you.
Type 2 Diabetes and Insulin Resistance
People with type 2 diabetes have a higher risk of colon cancer. That’s because insulin resistance—a common issue in diabetes—can promote abnormal cell growth.
There’s also a strong link between obesity, especially abdominal obesity, and colon cancer. Fat cells release substances that cause inflammation, and that inflammation can trigger cancer growth.
Managing your blood sugar and maintaining a healthy weight isn’t just about avoiding diabetes complications—it might also help prevent cancer.
Racial and Ethnic Disparities
Did you know that African Americans have the highest rates of colon cancer in the United States?
They’re also more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage—when the cancer is harder to treat.
Some of this is biological, but much of it comes down to inequities in healthcare access, awareness, and screening.
Bridging that gap means better education, earlier screening, and access to care for all communities.
Lack of Regular Screening
One of the most powerful tools we have against colon cancer is early detection. Yet many people skip or delay their screening colonoscopy.
Why? Fear, inconvenience, lack of symptoms, or just not knowing it’s necessary.
But here’s the reality: colon cancer often starts with no symptoms at all. By the time you notice something, it might be more advanced.
Screening methods include:
- Colonoscopy (the gold standard)
- Stool DNA tests
- Fecal immunochemical tests (FIT)
If you’re over 45 or have risk factors, talk to your doctor. It could save your life.
Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Power
No one can eliminate every risk. But by understanding the factors that influence colon cancer, you give yourself a fighting chance.
Start with the things you can control:
- Move more.
- Eat better.
- Stop smoking.
- Cut down on alcohol.
- Get screened.
And if you have risk factors you can’t change—like age or family history—lean on the ones you can. Prevention isn’t perfect, but it’s powerful.
References
- “Colorectal Cancer: Risk Factors,” American Cancer Society, 2023. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
- “Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer,” National Cancer Institute, 2022. https://www.cancer.gov/news-events/cancer-currents-blog/2022/early-onset-colorectal-cancer
- “Colon Cancer and Genetics,” Cleveland Clinic, 2024. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4059-colon-cancer
- “Colorectal Cancer Disparities,” CDC, 2023. https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/statistics/index.htm
- “Type 2 Diabetes and Cancer Risk,” American Diabetes Association, 2023. https://diabetes.org/diabetes/complications/cancer
- “Red and Processed Meats Linked to Colon Cancer,” World Health Organization, 2023. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
- “Physical Activity and Cancer Risk,” National Cancer Institute, 2023. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/obesity/physical-activity-fact-sheet