Colon and Rectal Cancers - Symptoms

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Highlights	Treatment	Radiation Treatment
Introduction	Surgery	Follow-up Testing
Causes	Chemotherapy	Treatment for Metastasized Colorectal Cancer
Risk Factors and Prevention	Radiation	Resources
Symptoms	Resources	References
Diagnosis and Screening	References

Lifestyle Factors

The risks for colon cancer are far higher in industrialized nations than less developed countries. A Western lifestyle, being sedentary, smoking, and having excess weight have all been associated with increased risk for colorectal cancer. However, about 75% of cases occur without a known predisposing factor.

Dietary Factors. A diet high in red and processed meats increases the risk for colorectal cancer. Diets high in fruits and vegetables appear to be associated with reduced risk. Several major studies indicate that high consumption of dietary fiber protects against colorectal cancer, but other studies report little benefit. It is also not clear whether there is an association between colorectal cancer risk and deficiencies of vitamins such as folic acid, a type of vitamin B. Recent studies have shown that taking folic acid supplements do not lower the risk of developing colorectal cancer, and that supplements appear to increase the risk for recurrent polyp formation.

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Alcohol and Smoking. Alcohol use and smoking are associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer. Patients who smoke and drink may also be diagnosed with colorectal cancer at a younger age than non-drinkers and non-smokers.

Obesity. Obesity is associated with an increased risk for colorectal cancer, especially for men.

Physical Inactivity. A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Regular exercise may help reduce risk.

Medical Conditions That Increase Colorectal Cancer Risk

Adenomatous Polyps. People who have had adenomatous polyps (adenomas) have an increased risk of developing colorectal cancer. When these polyps are detected during colorectal screening, as colonoscopy, they can be removed before they turn cancerous.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Inflammatory bowel diseases include Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The long-term inflammation caused by these chronic disorders can increase the risk for colorectal cancer. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is not the same as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS does not increase colorectal cancer risk.