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Could you be at risk for colon cancer? If you are over a certain age, have a family history of colon cancer, and have less than stellar diet and exercise habits then you could be at risk, yes. A colonoscopy may be a painful procedure, but it could save your life. What are the signs of colon cancer?

Lifescript.com spoke to a medical expert about how to determine your risk for colon cancer. Here are five factors that may indicate you could be at risk for developing colorectal cancer, and how to prevent colon cancer:

1. You are plus size – Women with a BMI over 30 have double the chance of developing colon cancer.

2. You don’t exercise – Not staying active is also a factor that will increase your risk of developing colon cancer. Being active for a least a half-hour each day, three days a week.

3. You like to drink – Drinking socially is one thing, but drinking too much can lead to the develop of carcinogens in your system. Same rule applies with smoking.

4. You won’t see the doc – Symptoms of colon cancer don’t often present themselves until the late stages. Colon cancer may exhibit symptoms such as anemia, bloody stool, abdominal pain and constipation.Polyps found during a screen can typically be removed and won’t develop into colorectal (colon/anal) cancer. Types of colon screening include flexible sigmodioscopy, virtual colonoscopy and fecal occult blood test (FOBT).

5. You deal with digestive problems – Irritable Bowel Sydrome (IBS) and other digestive problems can signify a risk for colon cancer.

For the full article and more information on women’s health topics, visit Lifescript.com.

The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).

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