Colorectal Cancer

It is most common in (but not limited to)...

• People older than 50 years
• African ethnicity
• History of polyps in the colorectal and family colorectal cancer history
• Inflammatory bowel diseases in the past

Some risk factors that make your chances of colorectal cancer greater:

• Genetic inheritance
• Diet high in fat and low in fiber
• Lack of exercise
• Diabetes and obesity
• Smoking and drinking alcohol
• Radiation therapy for other cancers
• People with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Symptoms/When to contact a doctor:

• A change in bowel habits, such as more frequent diarrhea or constipation
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Ongoing discomfort in the belly area, such as cramps, gas or pain
• A feeling that the bowel doesn't empty all the way during a bowel movement
• Weakness or tiredness
• Losing weight without trying

Learn more

See screening options and timelines on the Colorectal Cancer Screening page.