Colon polyps in Barranquilla, Colombia

What are colon polyps?

They are small growths on the inner wall of the colon or rectum. They are very common after age 50. Most are benign, but some, such as adenomas, can turn into colon cancer over the years.

What symptoms do they cause?

They rarely cause symptoms, which is why they are found through screening. When large, they can cause rectal bleeding, hidden blood in the stool, anemia or changes in bowel habits.

Who is at higher risk?

People over 45 to 50, those with close relatives who had polyps or colon cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, hereditary syndromes, obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, high intake of red and processed meat, and a sedentary lifestyle.

How are they detected and treated?

Colonoscopy allows polyps to be seen and removed in the same procedure, painlessly and without surgery. Fecal occult blood tests are a screening alternative; if positive, colonoscopy follows. Afterward, the gastroenterologist sets the follow-up interval based on the polyp type. Early detection prevents most colon cancers.

Find colon polyp specialists

On MedicosDoc you can find gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons and endoscopy centers. Compare profiles and book your appointment.