Causes of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a form of cancer that affects the large intestine and other nearby tissues. In the Western world, it is the third most common form of cancer and is is the second deadliest cancer. Colon cancer is often thought to arise from polyps that grow in the colon, which eventually mutate and become cancerous.

What is Colon Cancer?

• Colon cancer is any sort of cancer of the colon (large intestine), appendix and rectum. It is the third most common form of cancer.

Precursors

• Sometimes polyps form in the colon, which increases the risk of colon cancer. Removing these polyps can lower the risk of colon cancer.

Genetics

• If you have a family history of colon cancer, this can also increase your risk of getting it, especially if your history involves close relatives. There is also a genetic condition, called familial adenomatous polyposis, that almost always leads to colon cancer.

Diet

• A diet that is high in red meat can lead to an increased risk of colon cancer. This risk factor is especially dangerous for people with a diet low in fruit, fish, vegetables and poultry.

Other Factors

• Alcohol consumption, smoking and inflammatory bowel disease can all lead to colon cancer. Ulcerative colitis, a form of bowel disease, is especially linked with colon cancer.