Colon (bowel) cancer can develop due to lifestyle, changes in environmental factors, and inherited genetic factors. Colon cancer risk factors include:

**Genetic Factors**
Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer have an increased risk. Hereditary genetic factors increase the risk rate. Although genetic colorectal cancers account for only 5-10% of the disease, individuals carrying these genetic factors develop the disease at a younger age and face a higher mortality risk than others with colon cancer.

**Age**
The risk of colon cancer increases with age; it is most commonly seen in individuals over 50 years old. The incidence of colon and rectum cancer in individuals over 60 is ten times higher than in those under 40.

**Bowel Inflammations**
There are two types of inflammation: ulcerative colitis, an ulceration of the colon mucosa due to infection; and Crohn's disease, characterized by intermittent inflammation in any part of the digestive system from mouth to anus.

**Diet**
Consumption of low-fiber foods increases constipation, causing stool to remain in the intestines for extended periods, leading to the cancerous transformation of the area and the development of colon cancer. Processed meats, pickles, smoked meats, barbecued foods, and fried foods are all constipating.

**Obesity**
Regardless of gender, excess weight increases the risk of colon cancer.

**Smoking**
Numerous studies have shown a link between smoking and colon cancer.