A few risk factors for colorectal cancer include⁴

• Age: Colorectal cancer is more common in people >50; although it’s on the rise in people who are younger.
• Race/Ethnicity: Ashkenazi Jewish people have one of the highest colorectal cancer risks compared to other ethnicities across the globe. Alaskan Native and American Indian people have the highest rates of colorectal cancer in the U.S., followed by Black men and women.
• Family History: Although most people with colorectal cancer don’t have a family history, 1 in 3 people with colorectal cancer have a family member that was also diagnosed. If you have a first-degree relative with a history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyps, you’re at increased risk, with an even higher risk if they were diagnosed before the age 50 and/or if you have more than one first-degree relative affected.
• Personal History: A history of colorectal polyps, colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease increases your risk.
• Inherited Syndromes: ~5% of people with colorectal cancer have inherited gene mutations (changes) that cause certain syndromes that can lead to cancer. The most common inherited syndromes are Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
• Radiation Exposure to the Abdomen or Pelvis
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Being Overweight or Obese
• Diet: A long-term diet that’s high in red meat or processed meat may increase your risk. Meat that is cooked at very high temperatures (fried, grilled, broiled) creates chemicals that may also raise your risk. A vitamin D deficiency may also increase your risk.
• Tobacco and/or Alcohol Use

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