Colon cancer is the third most common cancer to be diagnosed in the United States. This cancer is also known as colorectal can affect both men and women. However, older adults are more prone to it. In this article, we have discussed some of the causes and symptoms of colon cancer .

Causes
Doctors have been unable to determine the causes of this form of cancer. But, there are a few risk factors that can increase your chances of the condition, these include:

• Age
  This cancer is most often diagnosed in people above the age of 50 years. However, recently it has been increasing among those less than 50, and doctors are not sure why.
• Race
  Those of African-American descent have a higher chance of developing this type of cancer.
• Intestinal issues
  If you suffer from chronic inflammatory conditions, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, your chances of developing colon cancer increase.
• Diet
  Some studies have found that a Western diet that is low in fiber and high in fat such as red meat and processed meat can increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Smoking and alcohol
  The use of nicotine and alcohol is bad for overall health and increases the risk for several diseases including colon cancer.
• Family history
  If a close blood relative of your family has been diagnosed with colon cancer, your chances of developing the condition will increase.
• Radiation
  Radiation therapy used near the abdomen can increase the risk of colon cancer.
• Lack of physical activity
  An inactive lifestyle can result in many health issues such as colon cancer.
• Diabetes
  Diabetics or those with insulin resistance are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer too.
• Obesity
  Those who are obese are at a risk of developing colon cancer, and their risk of dying from the condition increases when compared to those with a normal weight.

Symptoms
Most people do not experience any symptoms of colon cancer in the initial stages of the condition. However, being aware of colon cancer causes and symptoms can help to detect the condition as soon as possible. The symptoms when they do appear would depend on the size of the tumor and its location in the large intestine. Some of the symptoms are as follows:

• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
• Abdominal discomfort that is persistent such as gas, pain or cramps
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• A change in bowel habits such as persistent constipation, diarrhea, or a change in the stool’s consistency.
• A feeling that you have not emptied your bowels properly.

Knowing the causes and symptoms of colon cancer can help you be aware and get screened for the condition, especially if you are at high risk of developing it. A few lifestyle changes can help to prevent this condition.