Risk factors for colorectal cancer
VCU School of Pharmacy faculty, alumni and students have provided the Dr. Rx column for Richmond’s Fifty Plus magazine since December 2009. We now share those columns on the SOP website, as well, for those who might not have seen the most recent issue.
Serving as Dr. Rx for March 2016 was Emily Bailey, a fourth-year Pharm.D. student who holds a bachelor of science degree in human nutrition, foods and exercise. Her focus areas are critical care, cardiology, geriatrics and palliative care.
Q: I recently discovered that my paternal grandfather was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at the age of 40. Should I be concerned that I might develop colorectal cancer?
A: Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in either the colon or rectum, two sections of the large intestine. Abnormal growths in the large intestine, known as polyps, become more common with age. Most polyps are not cancerous, but certain types can develop into colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer worldwide. In the United States, colorectal cancer accounts for about one in nine cancer diagnoses and is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The probability of developing colorectal cancer increases as we age and rises steadily after age 50. The average age at diagnosis is 72.
Several modifiable and nonmodifiable factors have been found to increase your risk for colorectal cancer.
Age, family history, inflammatory bowel disease, type 2 diabetes, personal history of colorectal cancer or high-risk polyps, and genetic predisposition are risk factors that we cannot change. Having a first-degree relative (parents, brothers, sisters or children) with a history of colorectal cancer increases your risk of developing it yourself, especially if the relative was diagnosed at a young age.
Some risk factors we are able to control include lifestyle choices, diet and environmental factors. Modifiable risk factors Include:
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Overweight and obesity
- Alcohol intake (two to four drinks per day)
- Cigarette smoking
- Western diet (high in calories, saturated fat, red meat and processed meat)
During the early stages of colorectal cancer, few — if any — symptoms may exist. Symptoms can include:
- A change in bowel habits
- Persistent abdominal discomfort
- Blood in the stool
- Weakness or fatigue
The early stages of cancer often are not associated with pain. Because colorectal cancer can exist without any symptoms, it has been called the “silent killer.”
In many cases, finding polyps before they become cancer and removing them can prevent colorectal cancer. Treatment is most effective when colorectal cancer is detected early. Therefore, it is important to know if and when you should be screened.
Men and women who are at average risk for colorectal cancer (the only risk factor being older than 50) should begin regular screening at the age of 50. Screening starting at an earlier age is recommended for moderate- to high-risk individuals.
Be aware of your risk factors. Avoid lifestyle choices that increase your risk of colorectal cancer, such as smoking, drinking and a high-fat diet. Consult your doctor about ways to increase your level of physical activity, and attain or maintain a healthy weight.
If you are 50 or older or have a family history of colorectal cancer, talk with your doctor today about scheduling a screening and minimizing your risk of developing colorectal cancer.
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