Colorectal cancer is a cancer that develops from uncontrolled cell division of the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). Globally, colorectal cancer is the 3rd most common cancer in men and 4th most common cancer in women. However, incidences of colorectal cancer are increasing in Asian countries due to change in dietary habits and lifestyle.
Are you at risk of developing colorectal cancer? You are if you
- Are over 50 years of age
- Have a diet high in saturated fat, animal protein, red meat, processed meats like hotdogs, meats cooked over high temperatures and low in dietary fibre
- Have a history of polyps
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer or adenomatous polyp
- Have a family history of hereditary syndromes such as Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), Hereditary non polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), Gardner syndrome, Lynch syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS) or MYH-associated polyposis (MAP).
- Have a history of Crohn’s diseases or ulcerative colitis
- Are physically inactive and obese
- A heavy drinker (more than four drinks per day)
- Smoker
- Have Type 2 diabetes
- A woman with a history of ovarian, uterine or breast cancer
- Belong to the African American or Ashkenazi Jewish race.
- People who work night shifts due to changes in melatonin levels
- Exposure to radiation in the abdomen from past cancer therapy
Changed
08/Jan/2019
Community
Condition
