What Are Colon Polyps?

🔵 Small Growths in the Colon: Polyps are small, abnormal growths in the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Some are harmless, but others can become cancerous over time.

⚠️ Types of Polyps:

• Adenomatous polyps (adenomas) – can turn cancerous
• Hyperplastic polyps – mostly harmless
• Serrated polyps – some types carry risk

🌱 Small Growth Big Problem: Most colon cancers begin as polyps, making early detection critical.

Who Should Get Screened?

✅ You Need Screening If:

• Age ≥ 45 years (even without symptoms)
• Family history of colon cancer or polyps
• Change in bowel habits or bleeding
• Long-standing IBD (Ulcerative Colitis or Crohns)

📅 Frequency of Screening: Every 5–10 years, depending on findings and risk factors

🛑 Delaying screening increases cancer risk.

How is Polyp Screening Done?

🔍 Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard

• A thin tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum
• The entire colon is visualized
• Polyps can be removed during the same procedure

🧪 Stool tests and imaging are also available but may miss small or flat polyps.

⏱ Procedure Time: About 30–45 minutes, usually done under mild sedation.

Is It Safe? What Happens Next?

✅ Polyp Removal is Safe

• Removed polyps are sent for biopsy
• If harmless → routine follow-up
• If precancerous or large → more frequent check-ups

️ Possible Risks:

• Bleeding (rare)
• Discomfort or bloating
• Very rare chance of perforation

🗓 Follow-Up: Based on polyp size, number, and biopsy results. Your doctor will plan the next colonoscopy accordingly.