All about colon polyps in 7 facts

Colon polyps are tiny bumps that grow on the lining of the colon or large intestine. They are abnormal tissue growths common in both men and women, and the risk of developing them increases with age.

Does having polyps mean that colon cancer is inevitable? And is it then fatal?

Before we jump to conclusions or sound the alarm, here’s what you need to learn about colon polyps, told in 7 facts. Understanding them can help you assess your risks, know what to look out for, and when to screen for colorectal cancer.

Fact # 1: Polyps do not automatically mean cancer.

Let’s just get this big one out of the way. Most colon polyps are harmless and not cancerous.  However, nearly all cases of colon cancer start with having polyps. As we age, some may grow larger and with it, the risk of developing cancer increases. This is why early detection is key.

Fact # 2: Most colon polyps do not have symptoms.

Colon polyps are typically found during a colonoscopy or other colorectal cancer screening test. This is the main reason why getting screened is so important. When caught in its early stages (1 & 2), colon cancer is survivable in about 90% of people.^*1

Experiencing symptoms may already be a sign of colon cancer and could include:

• Persistent diarrhea, constipation, or narrow stools
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Abdominal discomfort (e.g., cramping, gas, or pain)
• Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or weakness (often due to anemia)
• Low red blood cell count (detected via blood work)

Fact # 3: There are different types of colon polyps.

Colon polyps are divided into two categories: neoplastic and nonneoplastic. The difference between the two? The first one is cancerous, while the second one is not. While there are many types under each category, these are the most common:

• Adenomas: Considered precancerous, this type needs to be removed to prevent advanced stages of colon cancer.
• Serrated: Also considered precancerous, this type accounts for about 20 to 30 percent of colon cancers.
• Hyperplastic: Most polyps are this type — typically noncancerous and generally considered harmless.

Fact # 4: Colon polyps and hemorrhoids are not the same thing.

While polyps grow on the lining of the colon or large intestine, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in or around the anus or rectum. They share common symptoms such as rectal bleeding, which may be the reason people think they are the same. Another difference? While polyps can turn cancerous, hemorrhoids cannot.

Fact # 5: It can take years for colon polyps to develop into cancer.

Colon cancer is the most preventable, yet least prevented cancer.² Part of the reason is that the growth of colon polyps is a slow and gradual process that can take about a decade. This is why the American Cancer Society (ACS) recommends that people at average risk start screening at age 45.³

Fact # 6: Lifestyle changes can help prevent colon polyps.

Although we have no control over our family history when it comes to colon cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle can certainly help prevent the growth of colon polyps. These include:

• Quitting smoking
• Avoiding alcohol
• Exercising regularly to maintain a healthy weight
• Eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and less red and processed meats

Fact # 7: Getting screened is the only way to detect colon polyps.⁴

Now that you know more about colon polyps, the next step is to get screened. Feeling hesitant? Know that you're not alone. The process of getting a colonoscopy can be quite intimidating and stressful.

One noninvasive option is Cologuard^® – an FDA-approved test that can detect precancerous polyps and 92% of colon cancers, even in the early stages.⁵ Adults 45 years or older, and who are at average risk, can now screen at home, with no prep and no time off — taking the fear out of the entire experience.