Welcome to today’s episode of Know Your Risk featuring colon cancer risk factors.
Where the categories are “Things you can’t control, like your genetics,” “Things you definitely can control with your lifestyle choices,” and everyone’s favorite “Wait…Does family history actually apply to me?” Grab your buzzer (not required)—because we’re about to break down the risk factors for colon cancer, one clue at a time.
| Genetics | Lifestyle Choices | Family History |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | 100 | 100 |
| 200 | 200 | 200 |
| 300 | 300 | 300 |
| 400 | 400 | 400 |
| 500 | 500 | 500 |
GENETICS – 100
This type of risk factor includes things you cannot change, like age or inherited traits.
CORRECT QUESTION
What are genetic (or non‑modifiable) risk factors?
GENETICS – 300
These relatives – parents, siblings, or children – are referred to as what for assessing family history risk.
CORRECT QUESTION
Who are first-degree relatives?
LIFESTYLE CHOICES – 200
A diet low in this nutrient is associated with increased colon cancer risk.
CORRECT QUESTION
What is fiber?
LIFESTYLE CHOICES – 500
Consuming too much of these meats — think bacon, sausage, and hot dogs — increases risk.
CORRECT QUESTION
What are processed meats?
FAMILY HISTORY – 400. DAILY DOUBLE!
If your sibling or parent has colon cancer, your risk almost does this.
CORRECT QUESTION
What is doubles?
FINAL QUESTION!
This is the single most important step you can take to reduce colon cancer risk — no matter your genetics.
CORRECT QUESTION
What is getting screened? Judges would also accept talking to your doctor about your risk factors and screening plan.
