Colon Cancer Screening Colon cancer develops in the large intestine and is a common and lethal disease. Colon cancer is the second most common cause of cancer-related death in America If colon cancer is detected early, it can be prevented. Factors that prevent Colon cancer: Calcium supplementation Folic acid supplementation Selenium supplementation Physical activity Factors that lead to Colon cancer: Fatty food Smoking Obesity Red meat ingestion Charred meat ingestion Alcohol ingestion Refined and processed carbohydrates