What puts you at risk for developing rectal cancer?

See below: Having a family history of colon cancer, a history of colon polyps, having ulcerative colitis and smoking all increase your risk of colorectal cancer.

Several things: Family history of colon or rectal cancer is probably the biggest risk factor. A history of polyps also increases your risk. There is some data that show that poor diet, smoking, and constipation may increase risk, but this is still arguable. To decrease your risk, particularly if you have a family history, get screened regularly and follow up on any rectal bleeding. Don't ignore rectal bleeding.