CAUSES OF COLON CANCER

CAUSES OF COLON CANCER 

Colon cancer develops when cells in the colon grow uncontrollably. It often begins as noncancerous polyps that may become cancer over time.

* GENETIC AND FAMILY HISTORY:

-Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling) with colon cancer increases your risk.

-Hereditary syndromes like Familial Adenomatous Polyposis 

-Lynch syndrome (Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer 

* DIET:

-Diets high in red meat and processed meats increase risk.

-Low fiber, high-fat, high-sugar diets are also linked to increased risk.

* SMOKING AND ALCOHOL:

-Long-term smoking and heavy alcohol use can damage colon cells and raise cancer risk.

* OBESITY AND INACTIVITY:

-Being overweight or obese, especially with belly fat, increases the chance of developing colon cancer.

-Sedentary lifestyle contributes to slower bowel movements and inflammation.

* INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASES: 

-Chronic conditions like Ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease increase inflammation and cell turnover in the colon, raising cancer risk over time.

* AGE:

-Most colon cancers occur in people over 50, though cases in younger adults are rising.

* TYPE 2 DIABETES: 

-Insulin resistance and chronic inflammation associated with diabetes can increase colon cancer risk.

* GUT MICROBIOME IMBALANCE:

-Changes in gut bacteria due to poor diet, antibiotics, or chronic inflammation may contribute to cancer cell development.