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Colorectal Cancer and Asbestos Exposure

Colorectal cancer, sometimes referred to as colon cancer, is the fifth most common form of cancer in the United States according to recent statistics. The symptoms associated with colorectal cancer depend on the location of tumor development and whether or not metastasis has occurred. Some symptoms may include a change in bowel habit, lower gastrointestinal bleeding, constipation, abdominal pain and weight loss due to a decreased appetite.

Asbestos Exposure as a Risk Factor

While asbestos exposure may not be considered one of the primary risk factors of colorectal cancer, several studies have shown a correlation and causal relationship between the two. Some have found that exposure to asbestos simply may increase the chances of someone developing colorectal cancer. According to a study conducted by the American Journal of Epidemiology, smokers who have been exposed to asbestos have a 36 percent increased risk of developing colorectal cancer than smokers who have not been exposed to asbestos.

Scientists and researchers first noticed the link between asbestos exposure and colorectal cancer in the early 1960s. Exposure to asbestos can occur by damaging or removing asbestos-containing materials. Once the fibers of asbestos have been disturbed, they have the potential to become airborne and inhaled by those nearby. Many who are exposed to large quantities of asbestos may develop pleural mesothelioma, lung cancer or asbestosis later in life.

Additional Risk Factors Associated with Colorectal Cancer

Additional risk factors that may play a role in increasing a person’s chance of developing colorectal cancer include age, polyps of the colon, genetics and smoking, to name a few. The majority of cases occur in those who are in their 60s or 70s. Receiving a colorectal cancer diagnosis before the age of 50 is rare unless colon cancer is present within family history. In a study performed by the American Cancer Society, women who smoked were 40 percent more likely to pass away from colorectal cancer than women who had never smoked. Male smokers had more than a 30 percent increase in dying from the disease.

Sources

1. http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_6X_Colorectal_Cancer_Early_Detection_10.asp?sitearea=&level=
2. http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/colon-and-rectal