What Are Colon Polyps?

A colon polyp is a small clump of cells that grows on the inner lining of the colon. Most colon polyps are benign, noncancerous growths that vary in size and shape. In some cases, they can develop into colon cancer over time, which makes colorectal cancer screenings an important part of your health care plan.

When detected early, colon polyps can usually be removed safely and completely. The best prevention for colorectal cancer is regular screening.

Types of Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are classified into two groups.

Nonneoplastic Polyps

Nonneoplastic Polyps are generally considered harmless and typically do not develop into cancer. These include:

Inflammatory polyps – often occur in people with inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Hyperplastic polyps – commonly occur in the lower colon or rectum, and may develop where the body has repaired damaged tissue.
Hamartomatous polyps – This type of polyp is rare in adults but the most common type of polyps in children.

Neoplastic Polyps

These type of polyps are considered precancerous and are more likely to develop into cancer.

Tubular and Serrated Adenomas – the most common neoplastic polyps, have the potential to turn into cancer over time.
Villous and Tubulovillous Adenomas—have a higher risk of becoming cancerous; closer surveillance is typically recommended.

Risks for Developing Colon Polyps

According to the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), more than 40% of people in their fifties have precancerous colon polyps. The ASGE also notes that being over the age of 50 is the biggest risk factor for developing colon polyps.

Other risk factors for colon polyps include:

A personal history or family history of polyps or colon cancer
Having an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
Diabetes – Diabetics have an increased risk of colon polyps
Being overweight
Smoking
Excessive alcohol use
Lack of exercise and eating an unhealthy diet

Symptoms of Colon Polyps

In most cases, people with colon polyps do not have any symptoms. They are often found as part of a routine colorectal cancer screening. Speak with your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms:

Rectal bleeding
Unexplained iron deficiency
Pain or stomach cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Change in stool color
Change in bowel habits

How are Colon Polyps Diagnosed?

A colonoscopy is the most common way to find polyps. Almost all precancerous polyps are found during a colonoscopy and can be safely removed during the procedure.

“One of the most effective ways to detect colon polyps and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer is through regular colonoscopy screenings. While colorectal cancer is a serious disease, it is highly preventable and treatable when detected early.”

Elliott Birnstein, MD, Gastroenterologist at Catholic Health

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy procedure allows a gastroenterologist to see inside the colon and large intestine using a flexible tube called a colonoscope that is inserted through the rectum while the patient is under sedation.

Sigmoidoscopy

With this procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum to examine the lower part of the large intestine or the sigmoid colon.

While a colonoscopy is the most effective way to detect colon polyps, other screening methods for colon cancer may include:

Computerized tomography (CT) scan
Stool tests
Blood tests

These tests are often used as initial screening methods and if abnormal results are found, a colonoscopy is then recommended to check for colon cancer.

At-Home Stool Tests

There are also at-home stool tests available that are simple, safe and convenient. These tests are often recommended for people with an average risk for colon cancer. There are two types of stool tests; one checks for unseen blood in stool samples and the second test checks for DNA in stool samples.

It is important to note that an at-home stool test is not always reliable and sometimes the results are incorrect. A colonoscopy is more accurate than at-home stool tests at finding cancer and precancerous polyps including advanced adenomas and serrated lesions.

When Should You Get a Colonoscopy?

The American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends routine colonoscopy screenings starting at age 45 for people with an average risk. Earlier screenings are recommended for people with a family history of colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis).

The ACS recommends a follow-up colonoscopy every 10 years for people with an average risk and shorter intervals in cases where polyps or other irregular findings were detected. A follow-up colonoscopy schedule is individualized based on your health and past test results and should be discussed with your doctor for personalized guidance.

Treatment for Colon Polyps

Your gastroenterologist can typically remove any polyps that are found during the colonoscopy. The polyp(s) will then be sent to a laboratory for testing. During a follow-up appointment, your gastroenterologist will discuss the lab results and next steps. Those steps will include when you should schedule another screening and how to minimize your risk for developing additional polyps.

Prevention

Although colon polyps cannot always be prevented, your risk of developing colon polyps and colorectal cancer may be greatly reduced by having regular screenings. Other lifestyle changes including exercise, eating a healthy diet, limiting alcohol and quitting all tobacco use, can help to lower your risk.

Learn more about digestive health and colorectal cancer services at Catholic Health.

Find Care at Catholic Health

Find a Catholic Health doctor near you. Or call 866-MY-LI-DOC (866-695-4362).

March 30, 2023

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