Understanding the Causes of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer that is diagnosed in men and women in the United States. It is a serious disease that can be treated if it is caught early enough. To help increase your chances of catching it early and treating it successfully, it’s important to be aware of the causes of colon cancer, and know how to reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Risk Factors

There are several risk factors that can increase your likelihood of developing colon cancer. Some of these risk factors cannot be changed, such as age and family history, while others are related to lifestyle.

Age: As age increases, the likelihood of developing colon cancer also increases. The majority of diagnoses occur in people over the age of 50.

Family History: People who have a close relative who has had colon cancer are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with the same condition.

Lifestyle Choices: There are certain lifestyle choices that are known to increase the risk of colon cancer. These include an unhealthy diet that’s high in fat and processed meats, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Preventive Measures

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer.

Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in red and processed meats can help reduce your risk.

Exercise: Being physically active has been linked to a decreased risk of colon cancer, so it’s important to get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day.

Screening: Even if you have no symptoms, it’s important to get screened for colon cancer on a regular basis. Early detection is the best way to increase the chances of successful treatment.

Colon cancer is a serious condition that can be life-threatening if it is not treated in time. By understanding the causes and taking preventive measures, it’s possible to reduce your chances of being diagnosed with this condition.