Colorado doctor explains age for the risk of colon cancer is getting younger and younger [Video]

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KKTV) – Health officials say that the age of risk for colon cancer continues to lower, and it’s been on that trend since the early 2000s.

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month and doctors are urging people 45 and older to get screened for colon cancer. Various factors have lowered the age of risk including tobacco smoking, diets with heavy red meat content and a lack of exercise. Pre-existing health conditions also have contributed to lowering the age of risk for colon cancer. These include type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia and obesity.

Genetic makeup can also play a big part in your risk for colon cancer or other cancers. Health officials say a history of cancer in your family may increase the frequency that you, or somebody you know should be screened for colon cancer. Doctors recommend patients look into their family lineage to see if …