Colorectal Polyps - Should You Be Concerned?

Polyps are abnormal tissue growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most polyps are benign (non-cancerous), some can develop into cancer over time (2). Since polyps are often asymptomatic, regular screenings are crucial for early detection.

The two most common types are:

1. Hyperplastic and Inflammatory Polyps: Generally non-cancerous, though some may indicate higher risk.
2. Adenomatous Polyps (Adenomas): Pre-cancerous, with over 95% of colorectal cancers developing from adenomas.
   

In Singapore, polyps affect about 15-20% of adults, with prevalence increasing after age 50 (3).

1. Can polyps be prevented?

While not entirely preventable, a healthy lifestyle such as eating fiber-rich foods, exercising, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, can help lower risk. Since factors like age and family history are unavoidable, regular screenings are essential (4).

1. Should I be worried about polyps?

Most polyps are harmless but should be monitored. Over 10-15 years, some can turn cancerous (5). Early detection and removal significantly reduce risk.

Colonoscopy is one of the most effective way to detect and remove polyps (6). During the procedure, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon, allowing doctors to examine the lining and remove any polyps found. It is recommended to undergo regular colonoscopies for individuals aged 50 and above, or earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer (7).

Polyps are common, especially with age, but early detection is key. Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when caught early, with a 5-year survival rate of over 90% for localised cases (8). If you are over 50 or have a family history of colorectal cancer, consider scheduling a colonoscopy. For those with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a sedentary lifestyle, earlier screening are advisable.

Regular screenings and a healthy lifestyle can help manage polyp risks effectively. Don’t wait for symptoms! Take proactive steps to protect your health.

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1. Sawicki, T., Ruszkowska, M., Danielewicz, A., Niedźwiedzka, E., Arłukowicz, T., & Przybyłowicz, K. E. (2021). A Review of Colorectal Cancer in Terms of Epidemiology, Risk Factors, Development, Symptoms and Diagnosis. Cancers, 13(9), 2025. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers13092025
2. Muto, T., Bussey, H. J. R., & Morson, B. C. (2010). The evolution of cancer of the colon and rectum. Cancer, 36(6), 2251–2270. https://doi.org/10.1002/cncr.2820360644
3. Singapore Cancer Society. (2023). Understanding Colorectal Polyps. Retrieved from https://www.singaporecancersociety.org.sg/images/contents/events-campaign-colorectal/ccam-colorectal-polyp.pdf
4. Fu, Z., Shrubsole, M. J., Smalley, W. E., Wu, H., Chen, Z., Shyr, Y., Ness, R. M., & Zheng, W. (2012). Lifestyle Factors and Their Combined Impact on the Risk of Colorectal Polyps. American Journal of Epidemiology, 176(9), 766–776. https://doi.org/10.1093/aje/kws157
5. Hossain, M. S., Karuniawati, H., Jairoun, A. A., Urbi, Z., Ooi, J., John, A., Lim, Y. C., Kibria, K. M. K., Mohiuddin, A. K. M., Ming, L. C., Goh, K. W., & Hadi, M. A. (2022). Colorectal Cancer: A Review of Carcinogenesis, Global Epidemiology, Current Challenges, Risk Factors, Preventive and Treatment Strategies. Cancers, 14(7), 1732. https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers14071732
6. Williams, C., Hunt, R. H., Loose, H., Riddell, R. H., Sakai, Y., & Swarbrick, E. T. (1974). Colonoscopy in the management of colon polyps. British Journal of Surgery, 61(9), 673–682. https://doi.org/10.1002/bjs.1800610902
7. Ng, S. C., & Wong, S. H. (2013). Colorectal cancer screening in Asia. British Medical Bulletin, 105(1), 29–42. https://doi.org/10.1093/bmb/lds040
8. Moghimi-Dehkordi, B., & Safaee, A. (2012). An overview of colorectal cancer survival rates and prognosis in Asia. World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology, 4(4), 71–75. https://doi.org/10.4251/wjgo.v4.i4.71