Danger of Colon Polyps

Polyps in the colon are usually harmless. Some of them, however, become cancerous over time. If your doctor finds polyps in your colon, get them removed and tested for cancer.

• Vital signs displayed during a colonoscopy.

Significance

• Colon cancer begins as a polyp in the colon. Polyps usually do not produce any symptoms until after they've become cancerous.

Size

• Some polyps grow to become as large as a golf ball.

Recommendation

• Because polyps can become cancerous without any symptoms, doctors recommend regular colon cancer screening for high risk groups, such as men over age 50.

Treatment

• Doctors remove all polyps found in the colon during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy. The removed polyps get tested for cancer.

Prevention

• Eat more fruits and vegetables instead of fatty foods to reduce the risk of colon cancer. Other activities that help reduce the risk include losing weight, avoiding alcohol, and exercising. If you have had polyps removed, you need to be screened for colon cancer regularly.