Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors

• Age 50 or older
• Family history of colorectal cancer
• Previous cancer of the colon, rectum, ovary, uterine lining or breast
• History of colon polyps
• History of ulcer in the lining of the large intestine
• Crohn's disease
• Ashkenazi Jewish ethnicity
• African American
• Diet rich in red meats, processed meats and/or animal fats
• Heavy alcohol consumption
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking (Smokers have a 30-40% higher risk of dying form colon cancer than non-smokers.)
• Obesity
• Diabetes (Diabetics have a 30% greater risk of getting colon cancer.)