Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S. — but it’s also one of the most preventable. Many cases of colon and rectal cancer could be avoided with regular screening and certain lifestyle changes.
Some risk factors are things we can’t control, like age and family history. But many are areas where you can promote your wellbeing.
Understanding your personal risk is the first step toward protecting your health. Your doctor will be an important part of that conversation. Siteman is here to support you every step of the way.
What Is My Risk of Colorectal Cancer?
You and your doctor can assess your individual colorectal cancer risk together. There are many factors to consider.
To help you get started, Siteman has developed an online tool called Your Disease Risk. It gives you useful, trusted, research-based information about your cancer risk and what you can do about it.
Take the Your Disease Risk® Assessment
Who Is at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?
Some risk factors for colorectal cancer are biological, things we are born with or that change as we age. Other risks come from lifestyle choices, where your choices and decisions can make a real difference. Knowing which factors apply to you helps you and your physician make more informed decisions about screening and prevention.
Risk Factors Include:
- Age 45 or older — risk increases significantly with age, though colorectal cancer is rising in younger adults
- A personal history of colorectal cancer, colorectal polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps in a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child)
- An inherited genetic syndrome — including Lynch syndrome (HNPCC) or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Race and ethnicity — African Americans have a higher risk of colorectal cancer and are recommended to begin screening earlier
- Type 2 diabetes
Risk Factors Related to Lifestyle
- A diet high in red meat or processed meat, and low in fruits, vegetables, and fiber
- A sedentary lifestyle with limited physical activity
- Overweight or obesity
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Current or long-term tobacco use
Addressing Genetic Predispositions at Siteman
WashU Medicine physicians and genetic counselors at Siteman are experienced in identifying and supporting patients with hereditary predispositions. Siteman maintains a registry of patients with known inherited tendencies for colorectal cancer.
If colorectal cancer does not seem to run in your family but multiple relatives have developed different cancers, or one family member has had several types of cancer, mention it to your physician. Genetic testing may still be appropriate.
Inherited Cancer Syndromes and Colorectal Cancer
The two most common hereditary syndromes linked to colorectal cancer are:
Lynch Syndrome (HNPCC): The most common inherited colorectal cancer syndrome. People with Lynch syndrome have a significantly elevated lifetime risk of colorectal cancer, as well as other cancers. Genetic testing can identify this syndrome, and carriers benefit from more frequent colonoscopy starting at a younger age.
Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP): A condition where hundreds to thousands of polyps develop in the colon. Because any polyp may become cancerous, surgical removal of the colon is often recommended. Polyps can also develop elsewhere in the digestive system, requiring lifelong monitoring.
Rising Colorectal Cancer in Younger Adult
Many young people assume colorectal cancer is a disease that only affects older adults. But recent research, including studies from WashU Medicine scientists at Siteman, shows that rates are rising among people under 50.
If you are younger and experiencing symptoms like rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss, don’t dismiss them. Talk to your doctor. Siteman’s Young-Onset Colorectal Cancer Program focuses exclusively on patients under 50.
How Can I Lower My Risk of Colorectal Cancer?
Even if you have risk factors you can’t change, there is a great deal you can do to reduce your overall risk. The steps below are among the most evidence-based actions for colorectal cancer prevention.
One of the most effective preventative steps you can take is to get screened for colorectal cancer each year when you become eligible. Screenings allow physicians to detect and remove polyps before they become cancerous, and it’s estimated that a significant percentage of colon and rectal cancers could be prevented if screening guidelines were followed.
Siteman’s 8IGHTWAYS® outlines evidence-based lifestyle habits you can adopt that are proven to reduce the risk of multiple cancers, including colorectal cancer.
Learn ways to reduce your risk here.