Causes of Colon Cancer?

What are the causes of colon cancer? There is no exact explanation, although studies have shown risk factors that triggers it. Risk factors are those that increase the chance of developing colon cancer. This article will enumerate and explain these risk factors that cause colon cancer.

1. Alcoholism

One of the major causes of colon cancer is alcoholism. Many studies have shown the significance and impact of alcohol in developing colon tumors. It has shown to tower the possibilities of colon cancer, especially if alcoholism has been made a habit.

2. Age

Another important cause of colon cancer is age. As a person ages, the more the chances that he develops colon cancer. In fact, almost all patients (90%) diagnosed with colon cancer are over the age of 50.

3. Family History

People who have family background of colon cancer have higher risks of developing the disease compared to those who don’t. Also, those who have more than one family member who have had colon cancer are at highter risk. Remember that colon cancer can run in the genes. In some cases though, family members who have the same exposure to carcinogens are most likely to develop cancer.

4. Genetic disorders that can affect the colon

Aside from colon cancer being genetic, some other genetic conditions act as a cause of colon cancer. Although this cause composes only 5 percent of the population of those who have acquired colon cancer, this can also be a big risk. One genetic condition is familial adenomatous polyposis that can make you at risk for developing thousands of polyps in the lining of the colon. When a person with this disorder reaches the age of 45 and is not under proper medication, it can lead to colon cancer. Another is hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer. People who acquire this genetic syndrome are more likely to develop colon cancer over time.

5. History of cancer

If you have developed cancer in the past and was cured, there could be a possibility of remission an you have a high risk of developing colon cancer in the future.

6. Daily Diet

What you eat is what you are and what you will become. You have to remember that your daily intake of food should contain enough fiber that is essential in keeping the colon clean. Studies have found an increased risk in of colon cancer among people who eat too much red meat and other processed foods. This is the reason behind most gastrointestinal-related deaths among Americans and Europeans —because their diets are usually high in fats and low in fiber.

7. Sedentary Lifestyle

A major cause of colon cancer could be a sedentary life style. Exercising equally boosts the body’s capability to repel diseases. An inactive lifestyle causes the wastes to stay in the colon longer than normal. Thus, increasing physical activities greatly helps avoid wastes from accumulating in the rectum longer. Wastes are toxic materials and should be eliminated from the body.

8. Inflammatory intestinal disorders

Those who have had long term intestinal disorders are likely to develop colon cancer. Some examples of this are ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, which equally increases the risk of colon cancer.

9. Obesity

Physical inactivity can be the cause of obesity and many experts have seen its relation to the growth of cancer cells. In fact, this has accounted to about 25 to 30 percent of what causes colon cancer. Thus, preventing too much weight gain should be done to prevent obesity and possible development of colon cancer. Those who are overweight and suspects to have colon cancer are advised to maintain a low calorie diet and a regular exercise. Even a very minimal weight loss can contribute much to a healthier body.

It is important that you know the factors that may lead to the development of colon cancer. Other factors include diabetes, radiation therapy for cancer (which has been seen to increase, rather than decrease the risk of colon cancer), and growth hormone disorders, among many other factors. Knowledge can always help us prevent things from ever happening. When you know what causes colon cancer, you will be more aware of what things to avoid, thus, helping you prevent this dreadful disease. It doesn’t only stop with knowledge though. You have to apply them to your daily lifestyle.

Top-Causes of Colon Cancer