The causes of Colon Cancer
As with practically all cancers, the exact causes are not known, however, risk factors that are present may help lead scientists to the answer. The risk factors for developing colon cancer include the following.
Diet
Individuals that eat a diet high in fat are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer. Those that eat a balanced diet and include such things as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables decrease their chances of developing colon cancer.
Colon polyps
Physicians believe that untreated polyps develop into colon cancer. In the majority of cases, these polyps are benign; however, over years without being removed the cells can change due to chromosome damage, which can become cancerous.
Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis can be a cause of colon cancer. This disorder brings on inflammation to the inner lining of the colon. In the majority of individuals with ulcerative colitis their chances of colon cancer begins to increase after 8 to 10 years of living with the disorder. Research shows colon cancer and individuals with ulcerative colitis include after 10 years 2.5% had colon cancer, after 30 years the rate rose to 7.6%, and after 50 years, it had risen to 10.8%.
Heredity
Past history of relatives with colon cancer increases the risk of this type of cancer. However, 80 percent of all patients do not have a family history of the disease.
