Colorectal Cancer: Causes, Risk Factors, and Symptoms
Summary
Colorectal cancer can develop in the large intestine, rectum, or anus, and is increasingly being diagnosed in younger adults. Poor diet, inactivity, smoking, alcohol use, family history, and chronic inflammatory bowel disease are among the main risk factors, while symptoms include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, weight loss, and weakness.
Key Points
- Colorectal cancer can affect the large intestine, rectum, or anus and is no longer limited to older adults.
- Risk rises with processed and red meat-heavy diets, low fiber intake, inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol use.
- Family history and chronic inflammatory bowel disease also increase the likelihood of developing the disease.
- Common symptoms include persistent constipation or diarrhea, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and weakness.
