A colon polyp is a mass of cells that grows on the colon mucosa.  Most colon polyps are harmless, but over time they can become colon cancer, which can be fatal if diagnosed late.

Anyone can develop colon polyps, but colon polyps are more common in people over age 5, overweight, smokers, and those with a family history of colon cancer or colon polyps.

Usually, the colon polyp has no symptoms and is diagnosed during screenings such as colonoscopy.  Colon polyps can be removed during colonoscopy.

Symptoms of Colon Polyp

 As mentioned, colon polyps are usually asymptomatic, but in some people the following symptoms may occur:

Anal Bleeding

Change in stool color

Changes in bowel habits in the form of diarrhea or constipation

Pain: Large polyps can cause pain due to obstruction.

Iron deficiency anemia: Prolonged bleeding from the polyp can lead to iron deficiency anemia.

When to see a doctor?

stomach ache

Blood in the stool

Changes in temperament that take more than a week.

You should be regularly screened for colon polyps if:

You are over 50 years old

The following risk factors may be present: Family history of colon cancer that needs to be screened earlier than 50 years.

پولیپ روده بزرگ

Colon Polyp Risk Factors:

Age (over 50 years)

Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)

Smoking and alcohol

Obesity and inactivity

Diabetes with poor control

Prevention of colon polyps:

Healthy habit of living

Consume fruits and vegetables

Reduce fat intake

Reduce alcohol and cigarette consumption

Weight control

Sufficient exercise mobility