2. Know your risk.

Not everyone has the same risk of colorectal cancer. Some people may be much more likely to develop this cancer than others. It is important to know if you are among those at high risk. Risk factors include:

• Family history. People who have two or more close relatives with colorectal cancer account for about 20 percent of patients with colorectal cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
  
  
• Previous cancer or polyps. If you have had colorectal cancer before and it was cured, or if you have ever had another cancer, such as ovarian, endometrial or breast cancers, you are also at a higher risk. If you have colon polyps, they may become cancerous.
  
  
• Other chronic conditions. Chronic inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes and certain hereditary colon or rectal disorders also increases your risk of colorectal cancer. For example, a family history of adenomatous polyposis, in which hundreds of polyps develop, can not only increase your risk of colorectal cancer, but can also make it more likely that you will develop the cancer at a younger age.
  
  
• Ethnicity. If you are from Eastern European Jewish descent, your risk may be higher for colorectal cancer.

3. Watch for potential signs and symptoms.

Colorectal cancer may or may not cause obvious signs and symptoms. However, if you do notice a possible sign or symptom of this cancer, it is important to contact your doctor.