The first step to preventing colon cancer understanding the risk factors. Even if you are at high risk for colon cancer, there are steps that you can take to decrease your risk.

Age is one of the biggest factors. While young people can also get colon cancer, people over fifty are at the highest risk. Those who have a family history of cancer, as well as women who have had breast cancer, uterine cancer, or ovary cancer are at high risk. Your diet can put you at risk. If your diet is high in fat and calories, and low in fiber, you are at high risk for colon cancer.

Other risk factors include polyps on the wall of the colon or rectum and ulcerative colitis. If you have had either of these conditions, you will most likely develop colon cancer later on. People who have IBD, or Inflammatory Bowel Disease, or Crohn's Disease are also at high risk.

 Prevention is easier than curing a problem. The first step in prevention is to get regular screenings. In many cases, the only sign of colon cancer is polyps that are in the colon. Finding and removing these polyps early helps to prevent full blown colon cancer.

You may also need to make dietary changes. Lower your intake of fat and calories, as well as your intake of meats and alcohol. You should get five servings of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, calcium, and folic acid each day. It is important to maintain a healthy weight as well. The use of baby aspirin each day is also recommended.  If you smoke, evidence supports that you should stop.