Some factors that may increase the risk of colon cancer include:
Older age (>50 years)
Previous history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Family history of colon cancer
Inflammation of the intestines (such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease)
Inheritance of certain conditions of polyps and colorectal cancer
Lifestyle-related risk factors: low-fibre, high-fat diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking and alcohol abuse
Diabetes and insulin resistance
Exposure to radiation therapy for cancer