Smoking colorectal cancer: Link, risk factors, and more
Research suggests that smoking tobacco may increase a person’s risk of developing colorectal cancer. It may also increase the risk of mortality from colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer refers to any cancer that begins in the colon or rectum.
The cause of colorectal cancer is not always apparent, but various factors can contribute to the risk of the disease.
This article discusses the link between smoking and colorectal cancer. It also looks at other risk factors, colorectal cancer prevention, and when to contact a doctor.
Various studies suggest a link between smoking tobacco and a higher likelihood of colorectal cancer.
Researchers estimate that it may increase the risk of the disease by as much as
Cigarette smoke contains carcinogenic chemicals. These can travel through the bloodstream to the bowel, colon, and rectum, and cause genetic alterations that lead to cellular changes. These changes can result in colorectal cancer.
Animal research also suggests smoking can increase the risk of colorectal cancer by altering bacteria and other microorganisms in the gut, called the gut microbiota.
In a 2022 study, researchers found that cigarette smoke caused an imbalance in gut microbiota in mice. The study suggests that this imbalance impairs the gut barrier function, which could lead to a rapid increase in cancer cells.
The gut barrier helps prevent harmful pathogens and toxins from passing between the gut and the rest of the body. A breakdown in this barrier may expose cells in the colon lining, called colonocytes, to toxins. This may result in inflammation and oxidative stress, which play a role in colorectal cancer.
However, outcomes of animal studies are not always replicable in people, so further research into how smoking may lead to colorectal cancer in humans is necessary.
To discover more evidence-based information and resources for cancer, visit our dedicated hub.
A person cannot always prevent colorectal cancer, but the ACS notes that screening
In colorectal cancer screening, healthcare professionals test a sample of a person’s intestinal cells for signs of precancer or cancer. They can also check for polyps in the colon lining, which can develop into cancer over time.
Some evidence suggests that vitamin D, calcium, and magnesium may help protect against colorectal cancer. However, more research is necessary to support these claims.
According to the ACS, people should begin regular colorectal cancer screening at the age of
If an individual notices any signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer at any age, they should speak with a doctor.
Various other health conditions may cause similar symptoms. A person should speak with their doctor to find out the underlying cause of their symptoms.
Early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer
Anyone who wants to quit smoking may want to consider speaking with a doctor for advice and support.
People who smoke tobacco have a higher risk of developing and dying from colorectal cancer than people who do not smoke. Smoking can contribute to genetic changes in the cells that cause them to become cancerous.
Other risk factors for colorectal cancer include obesity, eating a diet high in red or processed meats, and having a moderate to high alcohol intake.
Colorectal cancer screening can help detect abnormal cells or polyps before they become cancer. A person can also reduce their risk of developing the disease by eating a varied, healthy diet, maintaining a moderate weight, and stopping or avoiding smoking.
A person should contact a doctor if they experience any symptoms that could indicate colorectal cancer, such as blood in stool, blood when wiping, and changes in bowel habits that last longer than a few days. Healthcare professionals can also offer advice and resources to people who want to quit smoking.