What is a Polyp?
A polyp is similar to a mole on your skin, as it’s usually a benign growth that can develop and change over time. But unlike a mole growing on your skin, polyps are growths that can form in a mucus membrane — such as in your nasal passage, uterus, stomach, or colon.
Polyps are growths that you want to have looked at and possibly removed before they can grow further and potentially cause harm, but they can’t be seen without special equipment.
How Do You Find Polyps?
A colonoscopy is the best way to find and remove polyps in your colon before they can turn into cancer. Other methods of screening are not as effective at detecting polyps.
If you have a family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, it is important to talk to your doctor about getting screened earlier than 45.
During a colonoscopy, your doctor will remove polyps that they find before they become dangerous to your health.
How Dangerous Can Polyps Be?
Colorectal polyps are common in American adults. Between 15 – 40% of adults may have colon polyps. Kids can get polyps, too, though it’s less common. Around 6% of children may develop colon polyps.
If someone in your family has had polyps or colorectal cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing polyps, which means you should have a colonoscopy before you turn 45.
Over time, about 5 – 10% of polyps will turn into cancer.
Polyps usually take about 10 years to turn into early-stage colon cancer. Removing a polyp during a colonoscopy can stop cancer before it starts.
To learn more, click here → https://coloncancercoalition.org/all-about-polyps/
