Understanding Colon Polyps: What You Need to Know

Colon polyps are growths that develop on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While many are harmless and benign, some have the potential to develop into colorectal cancer over time if left untreated. As such, understanding what colon polyps are, their potential risks, how they are diagnosed, and how they can be managed is essential for maintaining long-term gastrointestinal health.

Colon polyps are fairly common, particularly in individuals over the age of 50. However, they can occur in younger individuals, especially those with certain risk factors such as a family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, obesity, smoking, or inflammatory bowel conditions. Although most polyps do not cause immediate health problems, they should not be ignored.

What Are Colon Polyps?

Colon polyps are abnormal tissue growths that protrude from the lining of the colon or rectum. They vary in size, shape, and number. Most are non-cancerous (benign), but some types can become cancerous over time, which is why early detection and monitoring are so important.

Polyps are usually classified into two main categories:

•  Non-neoplastic polyps: These are typically harmless and not associated with cancer. Examples include hyperplastic polyps and inflammatory polyps.

•  Neoplastic polyps: These have the potential to become cancerous. The most common types are adenomas and serrated polyps. These require closer follow-up and, in many cases, removal.

The risk of a polyp turning into cancer depends on various factors, including its type, size, and whether there are multiple polyps present.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of colon polyps is not always known, but several factors are known to increase the likelihood of developing them:

•  Age: Individuals over the age of 50 are more likely to develop polyps.

•  Family history: A history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer in close relatives increases your risk.

•  Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis can contribute to polyp formation.

•  Obesity and sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity and being overweight are known contributors.

•  Smoking and alcohol: Both have been linked to a higher incidence of polyps and colorectal cancer.

•   Type 2 diabetes: Poorly controlled diabetes is associated with an increased risk of polyps.

While some risk factors, such as genetics, cannot be changed, lifestyle modifications can play a role in reducing overall risk.

Symptoms of Colon Polyps

One of the challenges with colon polyps is that they often produce no symptoms, especially when small. This makes routine screening vital, as individuals may not be aware they have polyps until they are discovered during a colonoscopy or other diagnostic test.

When symptoms do occur, they may include:

•  Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool

•  Changes in bowel habits (e.g., persistent constipation or diarrhoea)

•   Abdominal pain or cramping

•  Anaemia due to chronic blood loss

These symptoms may also be linked to other gastrointestinal conditions, so it is important to consult a gastroenterologist like Dr Fernandes Mark Lee to determine the cause and appropriate next steps.

Diagnosis of Colon Polyps

Since polyps often do not cause symptoms, they are most commonly discovered through routine screening tests. The goal of screening is to detect polyps early so they can be removed before they develop into cancer.

Common diagnostic procedures include:

•  Colonoscopy: This is the most effective way to detect and remove polyps. During the procedure, a long, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon, allowing the doctor to view the lining and remove any polyps found.

•  Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but only examines the lower part of the colon.

•   Stool tests: These tests check for hidden blood or abnormal DNA in stool samples, which may indicate the presence of polyps or cancer.

•  CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): A non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed pictures of the colon and rectum.

If polyps are found, they are typically removed during the procedure and sent for laboratory analysis to determine their type and whether further treatment or surveillance is needed.

Treatment and Management

The primary treatment for colon polyps is removal, which is usually done during a colonoscopy. Most polyps can be removed safely during this procedure, reducing the risk of progression to colorectal cancer.

If a polyp is particularly large or located in a difficult area, additional procedures or surgery may be required. In rare cases where cancer has already developed, more extensive surgery might be necessary.

Following removal, the need for follow-up will depend on the type, size, and number of polyps found. People with certain types of polyps may need more frequent surveillance colonoscopies to ensure no new growths develop.

For ongoing care and monitoring, consulting a specialist such as Dr Fernandes Mark Lee is advisable. A gastroenterologist can develop a tailored screening and follow-up plan based on individual risk factors and findings.

Prevention of Colon Polyps

Although not all polyps can be prevented, several steps that reduce the risk of developing them:

•  Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity and balanced nutrition.

•  Limit intake of red and processed meats.

•  Eat a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and fibre.

•  Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.

•  Manage underlying health conditions such as type 2 diabetes.

•  Attend regular screening appointments, particularly after the age of 50, or earlier if you have risk factors.

Even without symptoms, routine screening is essential. Early detection makes it possible to remove polyps before they become problematic, potentially preventing colorectal cancer entirely.

When to See a Specialist

Anyone with symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained abdominal discomfort should not delay seeking medical advice. Similarly, individuals with a family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer should consider earlier and more frequent screening.

A consultation with a gastroenterologist like Dr Fernandes Mark Lee can help assess your risk, discuss the most appropriate screening options, and develop a personalised plan for prevention and monitoring.

Conclusion

Colon polyps are common, and while many are benign, some carry the risk of becoming cancerous if not identified and removed early. Regular screening, especially through colonoscopy, remains the most effective way to detect and manage polyps before they pose a serious health threat.

Understanding your risk factors, recognising potential symptoms, and taking proactive steps to maintain colon health are all crucial. Those at risk or experiencing symptoms should consult gastroenterologists such as Dr Fernandes Mark Lee, who can provide expert evaluation and ongoing care to support long-term gastrointestinal health.