Although colon polyps are very common and usually benign, many people are often unaware of their presence, or the more serious risk they could pose down the road. Today we’ll be highlighting everything you need to know about colon polyps, including what they are, the kinds you can get, risk factors that make you vulnerable and the kinds of treatment options at your disposal.
What Are Polyps?
Colon polyps are bunches of cells (typically benign growths) that develop along the colon's inside lining. Most are low risk, but during a colonoscopy, your colorectal doctor may remove them anyway. Some polyps carry a higher risk of turning cancerous, and those may require surgery or other treatments.
The Five Types Of Polyps
There are actually several kinds of the polyps that can grow in your colon. Here’s 5 to be aware of:
Adenomatous Polyps: These are very common, and most are benign. Larger versions may carry the risk of cancer, but they will be removed during a colonoscopy and you will be monitoring during regular follow-up screenings.
Inflammatory Polyps: Patients with an existing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) commonly get this type. They are low-risk and most often benign. However, your doctor may still remove them during a colonoscopy.
Hyperplastic Polyps: These small polyps are found near the rectum and are low risk. Your doctor will remove them during a colonoscopy.
Villous or Tubulovillous Adenoma Polyp: Only about 15% of colon polyps are this type. Most are benign; however, larger ones could become cancerous. Due to their flat shape, they can be difficult to remove during a colonoscopy and may need surgery.
Serrated Adenoma Polyp: This type causes roughly 20-30% of colon cancer, and it can be challenging to detect.
What Causes Colon Polyps?
There is no one cause for colon polyps, but there are a few risk factors. The first is being over the age of 50. Some other factors that may make you more of a risk for colon polyps are poor diet, smoking, being overweight, race, heredity, some inflammatory intestinal diseases, type II diabetes, and other diseases may cause them.
Dr. Francisco Itriago warns that "some studies have shown that red meat cooked over an open flame can contribute to the development of polyps that can then possibly turn cancerous."
What are Some Common Colon Polyp Treatments?
Most often, your colorectal doctor will remove polyps during a colonoscopy. After that, they will monitor high-risk types using follow-up colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. Some lifestyle changes such as a healthier diet can help eliminate colon polyps.
For more severe cases, minimally invasive surgery may be needed to remove the polyps.
The most important aspect of proper polyp treatment is early detection through regular screenings and follow-ups.
If you would like to set up an appointment to meet with a colorectal specialist, feel free to contact us today! As you and your specialist discuss your current colon health, be sure to ask them about your risk of developing colon polyps and whether it’s time for a colonoscopy.