“Key Highlights:Colon polyps are common growths that occur in the large intestine. They usually do not cause symptoms and should be removed to prevent them from becoming cancerous. Several screening tests can help detect and remove them at an early stage, for instance, colonoscopy beverly hills.”

Colon health is fundamentally linked to our wellbeing in general, with many people not thinking about it until something goes wrong. One of the common issues that people face in relation to their colon is the development of polyps.

Normally, these growths are harmless, but if any abnormal growths develop in the abdominal cavity, they are most likely cancerous tumors. Luckily, colon cancer is typically avoided as colonoscopy Beverly Hills can identify and eliminate precancerous polyps. However, it is vital to understand what polyps in the colon are and when it is necessary to contact a healthcare professional.

Why Colon Polyps are Problematic

The major threat of colonic polyps lies in the potential transformation into malignant tumors and development of cancer. Fortunately, malignancy transformation is a slow process that can be prevented.

Thus, the risk of colorectal cancer can be significantly reduced by removing all polyps, although it is sometimes difficult to predict which of these growths will become cancerous.

Most importantly, the removal can and should occur right during the colonoscopy, thus preventing the deadly disease and all the associated complications and mortal risks. 

The benefits of the timely procedure include

  • The prevention of colorectal cancer,
  • The reduction of risk factors and negative consequences
  • The increase in survival rates
  • And even the possibility of avoiding further treatment 

Common Risk Factors

Although the appearance of colon polyps may be unpredictable, there are several factors that increase the possibility of their formation. In particular, they are associated with a person’s behavior, such as following an unhealthy diet and lifestyle,as well as genetic predispositions.

In addition,it is important to note that colon polyps may have a hereditary character.

  • age,
  • familiarity,
  • improper eating and lifestyle,
  • obesity
  • inflammatory bowel disease.

Colonic polyps most often appear as people age. As a person ages, the risk of getting this disease rises, hitting the peak at forty-five years and after. Hence, it is essential to perform regular tests after forty-five years. Another factor associated with familial risk is the presence of family members who have suffered from colorectal cancer or polyps. In addition, there are factors affecting the development of colon polyps that are associated with a person’s lifestyle and behavior.

In particular, these include smoking, alcohol abuse, obesity, a largely inactive lifestyle, excessive consumption of red meat and insufficient fiber intake. Moreover, the presence of genetic inflammation of the bowel can also be a reason for the formation of polyps in the colon.

How Colon Polyps Are Diagnosed 

There are a few ways to test for colon polyps, the most common being a colonoscopy. The technique called Colonoscopy involves the doctor looking inside the large intestine with a scope, and any abnormal growths such as colon polyps can be removed, making a second test unnecessary, during the same procedure.

Other reasons that this procedure is helpful include

  • visual examination
  • removing abnormal tissue
  • taking tissue samples for biopsy
  • accurate diagnosis.

Other screening methods for finding colon polyps include

  • stool tests
  • CT scans
  • or “virtual colonoscopies,” and flexible sigmoidoscopies. 

Still, if any of the mentioned above procedures discovers something suspicious in the colon, a person will have to undergo a colonoscopy.

What Happens If Polyps Are Found?

Discovering a polyp in the Colon does not necessarily mean cancer Polyps can be removed, during the colonoscopy, with special forceps which are introduced through the endoscope. Once removed, they are sent to the pathology lab for examination. Based on the results, our  physician will determine the date of your next surveillance colonoscopy.

Some patients may require a repeat colonoscopy in

  • 3 years
  • 5 years or 
  • 7-10 years

or more, based on the number, size, type of polyps, family history, and general condition

Can Colon Polyps Be Prevented?

Unfortunately, there are numerous things in life that cannot be avoided or prevented. Fortunately, however, there are a number of things that we can do to prevent colon polyps.

Some healthy habits which may prevent them from occurring include

  • eating healthy
  • eating less processed or red meats
  • eating more fruits and vegetables
  • exercising regularly
  • avoiding obesity
  • not smoking
  • limiting alcohol consumption and
  • getting regular screenings.

However , the most important habit one can develop in order to prevent colon polyps is getting regular screenings. The reality is that most colon polyps do not have any apparent symptoms

Who Should Consider A Colonoscopy?

Those people who should contact a medical professional to schedule a consultation include those:

  • Who are 45 years old or older
  • Have a family history of colorectal cancer
  • Have a history of colon polyps
  • Face chronic digestive issues
  • Who have been diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Who have genetic conditions that predispose them to colorectal cancer.

Colonoscopy screening can help identify precancerous and cancerous growths, often before one even realizes they might have something wrong. Hence seek immediate medical attention before it is too late.

Conclusion

The bottom line is that colon polyps are relatively common, but they are not dangerous, so it is critical to get regular tests done, as there is a possibility for them to turn cancerous, and if that happens, colorectal cancer will be prevented successfully. 

Therefore, if there is a need to schedule any procedures or tests or you have questions regarding your condition, colonoscopy Beverly Hills is the place to help you make the right choice for your wellbeing.