Each cell in the body has DNA that contains instructions about what it needs to do. But colon cancer originates when the DNA in these healthy cells starts to mutate and grow in number. These cancerous cells continue to grow and form tumors, which eventually invade and damage the normal tissue nearby, migrating to other regions of the body. That said, there are risk factors that may lead to such a condition.

1. Race and gender
When it comes to colon cancer, the race is one of the major risk factors. African-Americans show the highest rate of colon cancer in the country. Further, men are at a higher risk of developing the disease, even have a high mortality rate as compared to women of the same race. African-Americans are also likely to develop the condition at an earlier age.

2. Age
Age is another contributing risk factor to colon cancer. Though the mutation can occur in young adults and teenagers, research shows that the condition is more common in people over the age of 50 (the average age for diagnoses in women is 72, and 68 for men). Older people also face unique challenges when it comes to the treatment of such cancer.

3. Genetic inheritance
Genetics is also a risk factor for colon cancer. Having a biological relative (parent and grandparent) with the condition can increase one’s chances. Studies show that about 20% of all people with colon cancer have a close relative with the same mutation. Such inherited conditions include lynch syndrome, Gardner syndrome, Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS), Muir-Torre syndrome, Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and more.

4. Food
There are indications that food also acts as a contributing risk factor. According to studies, people who consume large quantities of red meat or processed meat are prone to a higher risk of contracting the condition.

5. Smoking
Smokers are more prone to developing cancer and dying because of cancer – including colon cancer – when compared to non-smokers. So it’s best to start the journey to a cigarette-free lifestyle as soon as possible.

6. Obesity
While obesity can be linked to genetic conditions, sometimes it is caused by overeating, eating unhealthy foods, and lack of physical exercise. Keeping this in mind, being obese can induce several health conditions and is also a potential risk factor for colon cancer.

7. Other risk factors
Other risk factors like lack of physical activity and exercise can make a person susceptible to colon cancer. A history of certain types of pre-existing cancers, such as a diagnosis of uterine or ovarian cancer, can increase one’s chances of developing colon cancer. Adenomatous polyps (adenomas) are not cancers but can sometimes develop into colon cancer as well. Additionally, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation in the large intestine, and subsequently, colon cancer.