Last Updated on October 30, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
Colorectal cancer is a big health issue, being the third most common cancer in both men and women. In the United States, it’s expected that there will be 152,810 new cases and 53,010 deaths from colorectal cancer in 2024. Learn top colorectal risk factors including genetics, diet, and lifestyle influences.
It’s important to know the risks of colon cancer to prevent and catch it early. Some risks can’t be changed, but others can be affected by our lifestyle. At Liv Hospital, they focus on patient care and use the latest research to help people deal with these risks.
Knowing the basics of colorectal cancer is key to understanding your risk. This disease affects the colon and rectum. It’s caused by genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
Colorectal cancer starts with small, non-cancerous clumps called polyps in the colon or rectum. Over time, these polyps can turn into cancer. The exact cause is not known, but some factors increase your risk.
Key characteristics of colorectal cancer include:
Colorectal cancer is common in the U.S. Tens of thousands get it every year. This shows how important awareness and screening are.
Some key statistics include:
| Year | New Cases | Deaths |
| 2020 | 104,270 | 52,980 |
| 2021 | 106,180 | 52,980 |
| 2022 | 108,070 | 52,140 |
Knowing your risk for colorectal cancer is key. It helps in early detection and prevention. Understanding your risk factors helps tailor your screening and prevention plans.
Risk assessment looks at several factors, including:
By knowing these factors, you can work with your doctor on a plan for screening and prevention.
As people age, their risk of getting colorectal cancer goes up a lot. This is because the colon and rectum change naturally over time. These changes can lead to cancerous cells forming.
The risk of colorectal cancer grows with age for several reasons. These include genetic mutations building up, the body’s DNA repair skills getting weaker, and exposure to harmful substances. Most cases of colorectal cancer happen in people aged 50 or older. This shows how important age is as a risk factor.
The American Cancer Society says colorectal cancer cases go up a lot with age. Most new cases are found in people 65 and older. Here’s a table showing how colorectal cancer cases are spread by age:
| Age Group | Incidence Rate per 100,000 |
| 50-54 years | 34.6 |
| 55-59 years | 44.8 |
| 60-64 years | 57.3 |
| 65-69 years | 73.1 |
| 70-74 years | 93.4 |
Colorectal cancer is more common in older adults, but it’s also rising in younger people. This is called early-onset colorectal cancer. This trend shows we need to be aware and screen earlier for those at higher risk, even if they’re under the usual screening age.
The exact reasons for early-onset colorectal cancer are not fully known. But it’s thought to be linked to lifestyle, genetics, and environmental factors. Knowing about these trends is key to finding ways to prevent and detect cancer early.
Family history is key in figuring out the risk of colorectal cancer. People with a family history of the disease are more likely to get it too.
Having a first-degree relative (like a parent, sibling, or child) with colorectal cancer almost doubles your risk. This risk goes up even more if many first-degree relatives have it.
When many family members have colorectal cancer, your risk goes up. Studies show that having two or more first-degree relatives with it raises your risk a lot.
The age when family members got colorectal cancer matters too. If they were diagnosed young, your risk is higher.
| Family History | Relative Risk |
| One first-degree relative with CRC | 1.8 times |
| Two or more first-degree relatives with CRC | 2.5-3 times |
| Relative diagnosed before age 50 | 3-4 times |
Knowing how family history affects colorectal cancer risk helps everyone. It guides individuals and doctors in choosing the right screening and prevention plans.
Specific inherited genetic syndromes greatly increase the risk of colorectal cancer. These syndromes can lead to a higher chance of getting colorectal cancer, often at a younger age than others.
Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), is a common inherited syndrome linked to colorectal cancer. It’s caused by DNA mismatch repair gene mutations. People with Lynch syndrome face a much higher risk of colorectal cancer and other cancers like endometrial, ovarian, and gastric cancers.
Key Facts About Lynch Syndrome:
“Lynch syndrome is a critical condition to identify due to its significant impact on colorectal cancer risk and the possible preventive measures.” – Cancer Specialist
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a syndrome that greatly increases the risk of colorectal cancer. It’s characterized by hundreds to thousands of polyps in the colon and rectum, caused by APC gene mutations. Without treatment, people with FAP have almost a 100% chance of getting colorectal cancer by age 40.
| Condition | Gene Mutation | Colorectal Cancer Risk |
| Lynch Syndrome | DNA mismatch repair genes | Up to 80% |
| FAP | APC gene | Nearly 100% by age 40 |
Other genetic syndromes also increase the risk of colorectal cancer. These include:
It’s important to understand these syndromes to identify those at high risk. This helps in implementing the right screening and preventive measures.
Some medical conditions can raise the risk of colorectal cancer. It’s important to know about these conditions. This helps figure out the right screening and prevention steps.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) includes conditions like ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. The ongoing inflammation can cause genetic changes in colon cells, leading to cancer.
Key Facts About IBD and Colorectal Cancer Risk:
A history of colorectal polyps, like adenomatous polyps, is a big risk factor for colorectal cancer. The risk varies based on the number, size, and type of polyps.
| Polyp Characteristics | Risk Level |
| Number of Polyps | More than 3 polyps increases the risk |
| Size of Polyps | Polyps larger than 1 cm are considered high-risk |
| Histology of Polyps | Adenomatous polyps with high-grade dysplasia or villous features are high-risk |
Type 2 diabetes has been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. The exact reasons are not clear. Insulin resistance, high insulin levels, and chronic inflammation might be involved.
Considerations for Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes:
Colorectal cancer risk is shaped by many factors, including race, ethnicity, and demographics. It’s important to understand these to spot who’s at higher risk. This helps in creating targeted screening and prevention plans.
Studies reveal big differences in colorectal cancer rates among racial and ethnic groups. For example, African Americans face a higher risk than others. These differences stem from genetics, environment, and socioeconomic status.
The African American community is at a higher risk for colorectal cancer. They tend to get diagnosed younger and with more advanced disease. Factors like genetics, diet, and healthcare access contribute to this disparity.
Other groups, like Ashkenazi Jews, also face a higher risk. This is due to genetic mutations like those found in Lynch syndrome. Knowing the specific risks helps tailor prevention efforts for each group.
Socioeconomic status and healthcare access greatly affect colorectal cancer risk and outcomes. People from lower-income backgrounds often face barriers to screening and treatment. This leads to delayed diagnosis and worse outcomes. Improving healthcare access and promoting screening in underserved areas is key to reducing disparities.
Many things we can change increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Knowing and changing these can help prevent it.
Eating a lot of red and processed meats raises the risk of colorectal cancer. Red and processed meats are harmful, says health groups. But, eating more fiber, fruits, and vegetables can lower the risk.
Choosing whole grains over refined ones is good too. Whole grains have more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. These are key for a healthy gut.
Being active lowers the risk of colorectal cancer. Exercise keeps weight in check, improves digestion, and boosts the immune system.
Obesity, though, is a risk factor. It leads to chronic inflammation and insulin resistance, which can cause cancer.
Smoking and tobacco use are big risks for many cancers, including colorectal cancer. Tobacco has harmful substances that can harm colon cells’ DNA.
Quitting smoking greatly lowers the risk of colorectal cancer and other smoking-related diseases.
Drinking too much is another risk for colorectal cancer. Alcohol can create harmful compounds in the body and hurt nutrient absorption.
Drinking less is advised to lower the risk of colorectal cancer.
By changing these lifestyle habits, people can greatly lower their risk of colorectal cancer.
Effective colorectal cancer prevention starts with personalized screening. It’s all about tailoring the approach to your risk level. Early detection and prevention are key, and guidelines change based on your risk factors.
For those at average risk, screening starts at 45 and goes until 75. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) suggests several methods. These include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), and CT colonography.
Those at higher risk, due to family history or genetic syndromes, need more frequent screening. If you have a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer, you might start screening earlier and more often.
| Risk Category | Screening Start Age | Screening Frequency |
| Family History | 10 years before the age of the relative’s diagnosis | Every 5 years |
| Lynch Syndrome | 20-25 years old | Every 1-2 years |
| Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) | 10-15 years old | Annually |
Personalized screening looks at your unique risk factors, medical history, and preferences. It’s a tailored approach that maximizes the benefits of screening while minimizing harms.
Doctors use tools and guidelines to find the best screening plan for you. They consider your age, family history, genetic predisposition, and other health conditions.
Understanding and managing risk factors can help prevent colorectal cancer. By recognizing both non-modifiable and modifiable risk factors, individuals can take steps to reduce their risk of colorectal cancer.
Implementing prevention strategies such as maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding smoking can significantly lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Individuals identified as being at high risk for colon cancer should adhere to recommended screening guidelines to facilitate early detection and prevention.
Those with a family history of colorectal cancer, certain genetic syndromes, or other medical conditions should be vigilant. By understanding who is at high risk for colon cancer, individuals can work with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized plan for reducing colorectal cancer risk.
Taking proactive steps towards prevention and early detection can significantly impact colorectal cancer outcomes. Stay informed, discuss your risk factors with your healthcare provider, and take control of your colorectal health.
A family history of colon cancer means having a first-degree relative with the disease. This includes parents, siblings, or children. It’s more concerning if the relative was diagnosed young.
People with a family history of colon cancer are at high risk. Those with genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) are also at risk. So are those with inflammatory bowel disease.
Modifiable risk factors include diet, exercise, obesity, smoking, and alcohol use. Making healthy choices can lower your risk of colon cancer.
Age increases the risk of colorectal cancer, with most cases in those over 50. But, early-onset cases are rising. This shows the need for early screening.
Inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome and FAP greatly raise the risk of colon cancer. People with these syndromes need special screening and care.
Certain groups, like African Americans, face a higher risk of colon cancer. Socioeconomic factors and healthcare access also affect risk and outcomes.
High-risk individuals may need earlier and more frequent screening. This could include colonoscopy. Personalized screening plans can also help.
Yes, healthy lifestyle choices can lower your risk. This includes eating well, staying active, not smoking, and drinking less alcohol.
The exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown. But, genetics and environment play a role in its development.
Medical conditions like inflammatory bowel disease increase colon cancer risk. People with these conditions need regular checks and monitoring.
Andrews, S., et al. (2013). Gallstone size e related to the incidence of post-cholecystectomy retained bile duct stones. Surgery Journal, 5(3), 143-147. Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1743919113000484