Causes and Risk Factors of Bowel Cancer
Causes and risk factors of bowel cancer develops when cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably, often beginning as non-cancerous polyps. Over time, some polyps can become cancerous, especially if left undetected.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of bowel cancer, many of which are preventable or manageable through lifestyle changes and regular screening.
1. Age
- Risk increases significantly after the age of 50.
- However, cases in younger adults are on the rise worldwide, including in South Africa.
2. Diet and lifestyle
- A diet high in red or processed meats increases the risk.
- Low fibre intake reduces bowel health.
- Obesity, sedentary behaviour, and smoking are linked to higher rates.
- Excessive alcohol consumption is another contributing factor.
3. Family history
- People with a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who had bowel cancer are at increased risk.
- The risk is even higher if the relative was diagnosed before 50.
4. Genetic syndromes
- Hereditary conditions like:
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
- Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer)
increase risk significantly.
- Genetic counselling and early screening are essential for these individuals.
5. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Long-term ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease increases the risk of bowel cancer due to chronic inflammation.
6. Diabetes
- Type 2 diabetes has been linked to a modestly increased risk, possibly due to insulin resistance.
7. Previous cancer or radiation therapy
- People treated with abdominal or pelvic radiation for other cancers may have a higher risk of bowel cancer later in life.
8. Ethnicity and access to care
- In South Africa, disparities in healthcare mean that rural or under-resourced communities are often diagnosed later due to lack of access to screening and specialists.
Causes and Risk Factors of Bowel Cancer
Awareness of these risk factors can lead to earlier detection and life-saving intervention.
👉 [Next: Diagnosis and Screening for Bowel Cancer]
