Types of Cancer > Colorectal Cancer > Risk Factors

Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer

Risk factors are traits that put people at greater risk of developing cancer. While most people who develop colorectal cancer have no known risk factors, some traits do increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

Age
People over age 50 are more at risk.

Gender
Women are at a greater risk of developing colon cancer, while men are more likely to develop rectal cancer.

Polyps
One type of polyp known as adenoma is considered a precursor of colorectal cancer.

Medical & Family History
Women with a history of ovarian, uterine or breast cancer, previous colorectal cancer patients, people with chronic inflammatory conditions of the colon (ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease), and those with a family history of colorectal cancer have an increased risk.

Diet
A high-fat, high-calorie and low-fiber diet may be linked to a greater risk.

Lifestyle
Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of exercise and excess weight may be contributing factors.

Diabetes
People with diabetes are at a 30 to 40 percent higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Ethnicity
Jews of Eastern European descent (Ashkenazi) have a higher rate of colon cancer.