03/24/2025
Colon Cancer Awareness Month: Causes of Colon Cancer - Colon cancer doesn’t just appear overnight. It usually starts as small growths called polyps in the colon. While most polyps never turn cancerous, some can slowly develop into cancer if left untreated. Age, lifestyle, genetics, and health-related factors can increase your risk of colon cancer. Diet plays a significant role—regularly eating red and processed meats while not getting enough fiber from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can create an environment where polyps are more likely to form. A sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol use can further contribute to the growth of abnormal cells in the colon. Genetics also play a small part. If you have a family history of colon cancer, especially in a parent, sibling, or child, your risk is higher. Certain hereditary conditions, like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), can significantly increase your chances of developing colon cancer at a younger age. While age and genetics aren’t something you can control, living a healthy lifestyle can help prevent colon cancer. Eating more fiber, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding to***co and alcohol can significantly lower your risk. Most importantly, regular screening can catch polyps before they ever have the chance to become cancerous. Colon cancer is largely preventable, and understanding its causes is the first step toward protecting your health.
