Do Polyps Increase Your Risk of Colon Cancer?

Doctors often recommend patients undergo examinations to look for polyps in the colon, especially if they are above 45 years and those with a family history of such growth. But what’s the reason behind the recommendation and what actually are colon polyps?

Colon polyps are small groups of abnormal cells that form on the lining of various organs, including the colon and rectum. Most of the time, they are benign (non-cancerous). However, if not removed at the right time, it has the risk of developing into a malignant (cancerous) tumour.

In fact, colorectal cancer begins as an atypical growth in the colon, which is known as polyps. In the initial stage, the polyps are present with no such warning signs. With time, probably for years, they gradually became cancerous.

Polypectomy or colorectal cancer surgery in the early stages is less complicated because the polyps are localised, thereby making the procedure less invasive and allowing surgeons to get them removed quite easily.

In this blog, we will dive deeper into the different types of polyps, their risk factors and how they can increase the chance of colorectal cancer.

Colon Polyps and The Likelihood of Developing Cancer

There are different types of colon polyps. Here are the most common ones.

Adenomatous polyps: These types of polyps are linked to a greater risk of colorectal cancer. If you have a family history of adenomatous polyps, make sure to get yourself checked, as they can transform into malignant cells in a short time. The chances of these polyps turning cancerous depend upon their size, number of polyps and degree of abnormal cells in the polyps.

Hyperplastic Polyps: They are small bumps in the lining of the colon that are benign. Hence, they are not known to cause colorectal cancer. In rare cases, if the polyps grow bigger, they can develop cancer.

Serrated Polyps: They are another type of polyp that puts an individual at risk of developing colorectal cancer. They have a sawtooth pattern under the microscope. They are precancerous; however, if not removed, can multiply over time, particularly the larger ones.

Who is at Risk of Developing Colon Polyps?

There are several factors that increase the chance of having colon polyps. If you fall under the following categories, consult your doctor immediately to prevent undergoing colorectal cancer surgery.

• The risk of developing colon polyps increases to a great extent after the age of 45 years.
• A family history of polyps or genetic conditions also increases the likelihood of the growth of these polyps.
• Unhealthy lifestyle choices such as heavy consumption of alcohol, smoking and no physical activity.
• A diet rich in red meat and low fibre causes inflammation in the colon, resulting in the growth of polyps.
• If you have a previous history of polyps, chances are there for new growth.

Conclusion

Not all colon polyps are cancerous. Early screening is recommended to detect the harmful ones before they turn malignant. If you have any concerns or are in Stage 1, talk to your doctor, and if required, go for colorectal cancer surgery to prevent further progression of the abnormal cells.