Several risk factors make someone more likely to develop colorectal cancer. Still, many people with risk factors do not develop cancer. Similarly, people with no risk factors can still develop colorectal cancer. Risk factors for colorectal cancer include: A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease Alcohol use Being age 50 or older Being overweight or obese Certain inherited syndromes, such as familial adenomatous polyposis or Lynch syndrome Eating a diet high in red meat or processed meat Having a personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps Having Type 2 diabetes Not being physically active Smoking