Colon polyps are small growths that form on the inner lining of your colon, which is part of the large intestine. These growths come from the soft tissue, or mucous lining, inside your digestive tract.
Polyps are quite common, and many of them do not cause any harm. However, some types can turn into cancer over time if they are not removed. That’s why doctors carefully check for polyps during a colonoscopy.
Even though polyps are not cancerous, almost all colon and rectal cancers begin as polyps. So, finding and removing them early can help prevent cancer from developing later.
Doctors classify colon polyps in a few different ways. One way they do this is by examining their shape. Since polyps grow and develop differently, their shapes and features can vary.
For example, doctors call a polyp a pedunculated polyp if it looks like a mushroom with a head and a thin stem. If the polyp looks like a bump with a wide base and no stem, they call it sessile polyp.
These shapes, along with how the cells appear under a microscope, help doctors decide how likely a polyp is to become cancerous. Because of this, different types of polyps carry different levels of cancer risk over time.
Colon polyps are quite common, especially as people get older. In fact, about 1 in 5 adults have them. The number goes up to around 4 in 10 for people over the age of 50.
Although colon polyps are less common in children, about 6% of kids may also have them. They can develop in anyone, no matter their race or gender. However, they are seen more often in people who live in Western countries.
Most colon polyps and colorectal cancers do not cause any symptoms in the beginning. Because of this, regular screening is very important. Usually, if you start noticing symptoms, the polyp may have already turned into cancer.
However, there are urgent signs you can watch for. These may include:
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to talk to a doctor as soon as possible. Early testing can help find and treat problems before they become serious.
Colon polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon, which are usually benign. However, some types, especially adenomatous polyps, can develop into colon cancer over time if left untreated. Regular screening helps detect and remove it early, reducing the risk of colon cancer.
The recommended screening age typically starts at 45-50 years old, but those with higher risk factors may need to start earlier. Screening methods, such as a colonoscopy, should be done every 10 years if no polyps are found. If they are discovered, your doctor may recommend more frequent screenings. Consult your doctor to determine the right screening tests for you.
Yes, lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing colon cancer. A diet high in fiber, low in red and processed meats, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can lower your risk. Regular screenings are also essential for early detection.
Early-stage colon cancer often has no symptoms. However, as they grow, common symptoms may include changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation), blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort. Regular screenings are key to catching cancer early before symptoms develop.
Individuals over the age of 50, those with a family history of colon cancer, individuals with certain genetic conditions (like Lynch syndrome), and those with a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are at higher risk. Lifestyle factors like smoking, obesity, and a diet high in processed foods also increase risk.
Most colon polyps have the potential to become cancerous, which is why healthcare providers remove them during a colonoscopy. But very few of them do turn into cancer, and it takes a long time for them to do so. The risk of a random, average-sized polyp becoming cancerous is estimated to be 8% over 10 years and 24% over 20 years.
Colon polyps affect about 20% of adults overall and about 40% of people over 50. They’re more common in men and older adults, whereas colon cancer is the third most common non-skin cancer in both men and women in the United States.
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