Colon cancer (also known as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer) is any cancer that affects the final section of the digestive system (usually the colon or rectum). It is one of the most widespread cancers in the UK and causes over 16,000 deaths each year. There are a number of risk factors associated with this type of cancer. In this article I will be discussing these risks and hopefully helping you avoid this potentially lethal condition.
1) GETTING OLDER: Unfortunately the number one risk factors for colorectal cancer is completely beyond our control. Over 85% of these cancers are diagnosed in people aged 60 or over. The reason for this is that most colorectal cancers come from polyps (fleshy growths) in the colon. Most of these polyps are harmless but they can become cancerous. As we age our chances of developing polyps increases and therefore so does our risk of developing this type of cancer.
2) EXCESSIVE ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION: Drinking too much alcohol is another factor that increases your colon cancer risk. Although some studies do suggest that drinking wine in moderation can lower your bowel cancer risk, the evidence is almost unanimous that heavy drinking is linked with this and other types of cancer too.