Technically, a polyp is a piece of tissue that abnormally grows out of mucous membrane. Sometimes, a polyp will have a long stalk attached to it, in which case it is called “pedunculated”. Also, there are a wide variety of polyps which can appear in the rectum, colon, stomach, and other parts of the body. Usually, the polyps are small and don’t show many symptoms. But, if left untreated…they can easily turn into colon and rectal cancers. By removing polyps with a colonoscopy, you can reduce the occurrence of most colon and rectal cancers.

How can you test for Colon Polyps?

1. Colonoscopy – At first, you will receive some medication to sedate you during the process. Next, a small tube called a sigmoid scope is inserted into the rectum. There is a light on the end of the tube which enables the doctor to take a look at the large intestine. The tube also has a tool used to remove polyps.
2. Barium Enema – For this process, the doctor administers a liquid (Barium) into the rectum. Next, x-rays are taken of the large intestine which shows up white…while polyps display as dark.
3. CT Scan – The computerized tomography scan is also referred to as a virtual colonoscopy and involves a similar process to a colonoscopy, however it doesn’t remove the polyps.

Colorectal Polyps and Cancer

The most common types of polyps found in the large intestine are Hyperlastic Polyps and Adenomatous Polyps. Hyperlastic are usually small a have a low probability of becoming cancer. The Adenomas are benign, but if not treated could become colon cancer. See, the Polyps and colon cancer derive from genetic mutations in the growth and repair of cells lining the colon. So, that begs the question…

How do I prevent Polyps?

The major risk factors for colorectal cancer include

• Smoking
• Obesity
• IBD, Crohn’s or Colitis
• Poor Diet (particularly low in fiber)
• Family history

Of course, living an overall healthy lifestyle will reduce the risk of getting colon and rectal cancer. Most importantly, make sure to exercise regularly, eat a diet that’s high in fiber and low in fat, and eat a few servings of fruits and vegetables daily. it is recommended that anyone over fifty years of age get screened for polyps, especially if you have a history of cancer or inflammatory bowel syndrome. After a Certain age, a colonoscopy should be performed every 5-10 years.  Visit our web site at http://www.floridacolonandrectaldoctors.com for more information.

This entry was posted on Thursday, October 22nd, 2009 at 9:32 pm and is filed under Colon Cancer Treatment, Colon Surgery South Florida, Diverticulitis Facts, Gall Bladder Surgery, Minimally Invasive Florida Doctors. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.