Subtitle: What Percentage of Bowel Polyps Become Cancerous
Bowel polyps are growths of tissue that protrude from the lining of the large intestine. While most polyps are benign, some may become cancerous. Knowing the percentage of polyps that turn cancerous is important for understanding the risk and taking preventive measures.
Prevalence
According to the National Institutes of Health, approximately 10% of polyps found in the colon or rectum become cancerous. However, this figure can vary based on the type of polyp and the person's risk factors. For example, the prevalence of cancerous polyps is higher in people with a family history of colorectal cancer.
Types
The most common type of polyp is called an adenomatous polyp. These typically have a greater chance of becoming cancerous than other types of polyps. Other types of polyps include inflammatory polyps, hyperplastic polyps, and hamartomatous polyps.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing cancerous polyps include age, family history of colorectal cancer, lifestyle choices such as smoking and a diet low in fiber, and certain medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease.
Screening
Screening for polyps is an important part of preventive health care. Regular screenings can help identify polyps early, before they have a chance to become cancerous. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults begin regular screenings at age 45. People with a higher risk of colorectal cancer should begin screening at a younger age.
Treatment
If a polyp is found to be cancerous, it will usually need to be removed. This may be done with a procedure called a colonoscopy. In some cases, chemotherapy or radiation may also be recommended. The treatment plan will depend on the size, type, and location of the polyp.