Colorectal Polyps

Colorectal polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. They are usually small, non-cancerous (benign), and can be found in people of all ages. However, some polyps can become cancerous over time if left untreated.

Types of Colorectal Polyps

There are several types of colorectal polyps, including:

• Hyperplastic polyps: These are the most common type and are usually small and non-cancerous.
• Adenomatous polyps (adenomas): These are the most common type of polyp that can become cancerous. They can be further divided into:
• Tubular adenomas
• Villous adenomas
• Tubulovillous adenomas (a combination of tubular and villous)
• Sessile serrated polyps: These are flat and can be difficult to detect. They have a higher risk of becoming cancerous.
• Inflammatory polyps: These occur in people with inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of colorectal polyps is not known, but several factors can increase the risk of developing them:

• Age: The risk increases with age, especially after 50 years old.
• Family history: Having a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
• Diet: A diet high in fat and low in fiber may increase the risk.
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Certain medical conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or a personal history of colorectal cancer.

Symptoms

Colorectal polyps often do not cause symptoms, but some people may experience:

• Blood in the stool
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Weakness or fatigue due to anemia from blood loss.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Colorectal polyps can be diagnosed using:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to visualize the colon and rectum.
• Sigmoidoscopy: A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to visualize the lower part of the colon and rectum.
• Virtual colonoscopy (CT colonography): A non-invasive test that uses CT scans to create images of the colon and rectum.

Treatment for colorectal polyps usually involves:

• Removal during colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy: Polyps can be removed using a variety of techniques, such as snaring or biopsy forceps.
• Surgical removal: Large or cancerous polyps may require surgical removal.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing colorectal polyps:

• Eat a healthy diet high in fiber and low in fat.
• Exercise regularly.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Avoid smoking.
• Get regular screenings, such as colonoscopies or sigmoidoscopies, starting at age 50 (or earlier if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps).