Colon Polyps

Overview

A colon polyp is a small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the colon. Mostly harmless, some colon polyps can develop into colon cancer over time, which is often fatal when found in its later stages.

Anyone can develop colon polyps, but you are at higher risk if you’re age 50 or older, are overweight, a smoker, or have a personal or family history of colon polyps or colon cancer.

Colon polyps rarely cause symptoms, so it is important to have regular screening tests, such as colonoscopy. Colon polyps found in the early stages can often be safely removed.

The best prevention for colon cancer is regular screening for polyps.