The risk of developing colorectal cancer increases with advancing age. More than 90 percent of cases occur in people aged 45 or older. Other risk factors include having:

• Inflammatory bowel disease.
• A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps.
• A genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (Lynch Syndrome).

Lifestyle factors that may contribute to increased risk of colorectal cancer include:

• Lack of regular physical activity.
• Low fruit and vegetable intake.
• A low-fiber and high-fat diet.
• Overweight and obesity.
• Alcohol consumption.
• Tobacco use.

References: http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/basic_info/risk_factors.htm

Your doctor will tell you whether a simple at-home test or a colonoscopy is appropriate. Both are fully or partially covered by most medical insurance plans. If you can't afford a colorectal cancer screening, ask your provider or the South Dakota Department of Health — financial assistance may be available.