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What are the risk factors and causes of colon cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women. In 2004, an estimated 146,940 new cases will be diagnosed, and 56,730 deaths from colorectal cancer will occur.
Genetic or hereditary factors play a part in colon cancer risk. There is a two- to fourfold increased incidence among those with an affected first-degree relative. However, 80% of colon cancer is sporadic and not associated with known hereditary, genetic factors.
Race is a factor in the incidence of colon cancer. For example, the incidence of colon cancer per 100,000 in the U.S. population is 48.7 for blacks, 39.3 for whites, 26.5 for Hispanics, 32.0 for Asians and Pacific islanders, and 26.0 for Native Americans and Alaskan natives.
Another colon cancer risk factor is age. Ninety percent of cases occur after 50 years of age.
Cancer research demonstrates a direct correlation between increased body weight and development of colon cancer. Dietary factors associated with an increased incidence of colorectal cancer risk include a diet high in total fat and meat (both red and white meat). A sedentary lifestyle has also been associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.
Cigarette smoking is associated with an increased tendency to form polyps that develop into colorectal cancer.
Some studies report an association between decreased colon cancer incidence and aspirin use. In addition, other studies have suggested a decreased risk of colon cancer among users of hormone replacement therapy.
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