Colon polyps risk factors

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Sadaf Sharfaei M.D.[2]

Risk factors in the development of colon polyps may be environmental, genetic, and lifestyle behaviors. The most potent risk factor in the development of colon polyps is age. Other risk factors include family history, obesity, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption.

• Risk factors in the development of colon polyps may be modifiable or nonmodifiable factors.^[1][2][3][4]
• Risk factors in the development of colon polyps may be environmental, genetic, and lifestyle behaviors.
• The most potent risk factor in the development of colon polyps is age.
• Other risk factors include family history, obesity, cigarette smoking, and alcohol consumption.

• Common risk factors in the development of colon polyps include:
  • Non-modifiable
    • Age
    • Race
    • Past history of colon polyps
    • Family history
    • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Modifiable lifestyle behavior
    • Cigarette smoking
    • Alcohol abuse
    • Obesity
    • Lack of exercise
    • Diet high in red meats and processed meats
    • Low fiber intake
    • Low calcium intake
    • Low folate intake
    • Type 2 diabetes mellitus

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