Do hemorrhoids increase the risk of colorectal cancer?

No. Hemorrhoids do not increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. But since both conditions can produce rectal bleeding as a symptom, it’s important to determine whether cancer may also be present. Because of this fact, further diagnostic procedures, such as flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy may be recommended. Research shows that up to 2.3% of patients with bleeding hemorrhoids may also have colorectal cancer.