- Personal history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps
- A strong family history of the disease
- Inherited forms of colorectal polyps or cancer e.g. Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)
- Previous Colorectal, ovarian, endometrial or breast cancer
- Predisposing chronic digestive condition such as inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis)
- Age > 50
- Poor diet (increased fat, red meat and reduced fibre)
- Smoking
- Diabetes mellitus
- Exposure to radiation