Risk Factors and Symptoms

Colorectal Cancer

Are you at high risk of developing Colorectal Cancer?

The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with advancing age.  Screening tests for colorectal cancer should begin soon after turning 50, and then continue at regular intervals or at the recommendation of your health care provider.  However, you may need to be tested earlier or more often than other people if your risk factors include the following:

• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Certain hereditary syndromes
• A personal history or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer

Lifestyle factors that may contribute to increased risk of colorectal cancer include:

• Lack of regular physical activity
• Low fruit and vegetable intake
• Low-fiber and high-fat diet
• Overweight and obesity
• Alcohol consumption
• Tobacco use

Symptoms that may occur.

Colorectal cancer first develops with few, if any, symptoms.  However, if symptoms are present, they may include:

• Blood in or on the stool
• A change in bowel habits
• Stools that are narrower than usual
• General, unexplained stomach discomfort
• Frequent gas, pains or indigestion
• Unexplained weight loss
• Chronic fatigue

These symptoms can also be associated with many other health conditions.  If you have any of these symptoms, discuss them with your doctor.  Only your doctor can determine why you are having these symptoms.