Bowel polyps are abnormal growths that develop on the lining of the large intestine or rectum. They usually look like small, flat bumps or tiny mushroom-shaped growths.
The majority of bowel polyps are not cancerous, but some have the potential to become cancerous. Polyps that are detected early can be removed and monitored to prevent cancer from developing. However, if left untreated, they can grow into cancer over time.
What Causes Bowel Polyps?
The exact cause of bowel polyps is unknown. However, several factors increase the risk of developing them:.
- Aged over 50 years old
- A family history of bowel cancer or polyps
- Having a personal history of bowel polyps or bowel cancer
- Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
- Lifestyle factors such as a diet high in red meat and low in fibre, smoking, obesity and lack of exercise
What Are the Symptoms of Bowel Polyps?
Bowel polyps typically do not cause any symptoms. However, some people may experience:.
- Bleeding from the rectum
- Blood in the stool
- Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea
- Abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
If these symptoms occur, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions, but they could also be a sign of bowel cancer.
What Is Bowel Cancer?
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. It is the second most common cancer in both men and women in the UK.
Bowel cancer usually develops from polyps that have grown in the lining of the bowel. Over time, these polyps can become cancerous.
What Is the Connection Between Bowel Polyps and Cancer Sizes?
The majority of bowel polyps are benign and do not develop into cancer. However, some types of polyps have a higher risk of becoming cancerous than others.
The two main types of polyps that are at risk of becoming cancerous are adenomatous polyps and serrated polyps.
Adenomatous polyps are the most common type of polyp. They can be small or large and have a more significant risk of developing into cancer over time. Adenomatous polyps larger than 1 cm have a particularly high risk of becoming cancerous.
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Size Matters: Bowel Polyps and Cancer
Serrated polyps are less common than adenomatous polyps but have a higher risk of developing into cancer. They are flat and look wavy under a microscope, and there are two types of serrated polyps:.
- Traditional serrated adenomas
- Hyperplastic polyps with serrated architecture
Large hyperplastic polyps with serrated architectures have a higher risk of developing into cancer. However, this type of polyp is less common, and the majority of hyperplastic polyps are small and not likely to become cancerous.
Why Is the Size of Bowel Polyps Important?
The size of bowel polyps is essential because the larger the polyp, the more likely it is to become cancerous. This is because it takes more time for a larger polyp to develop into cancer, and a larger polyp has more cells that can become cancerous.
Small polyps, which are less than 1 cm, are less likely to be cancerous. Therefore, they only require monitoring to ensure that they do not grow over time.
However, large polyps are at higher risk, and doctors usually recommend removing them to prevent cancer from developing.
How Are Bowel Polyps and Cancer Sizes Diagnosed?
Bowel polyps and cancer sizes are diagnosed using various tests and procedures, including:.
- Bowel scope screening
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- CT colonography
- Faecal immunochemical test (FIT)
- Faecal occult blood test (FOBT)
In a colonoscopy, a doctor examines the inside of the large intestine using a long, thin, flexible tube with a camera attached. Biopsy samples, which are small pieces of tissue, can also be taken during this procedure to check for cancerous cells.
How Are Bowel Polyps and Cancer Sizes Treated?
Bowel polyps and cancer sizes are treated depending on several factors, such as the size, location, and type of polyp, as well as the stage and type of cancer. Treatment options include:.
- Surgery to remove the polyp, part of the bowel, or the entire bowel
- Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells using medication
- Radiotherapy to destroy cancer cells using high-energy radiation
How Can Bowel Polyps and Cancer Sizes Be Prevented?
Bowel polyps and cancer sizes can be prevented by making certain lifestyle changes:.
- Eating a healthy diet that is high in fibre, fruits, and vegetables
- Reducing the intake of red and processed meat
- Exercising regularly
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Quitting smoking
- Drinking alcohol in moderation
It is also essential to attend regular bowel cancer screening appointments to detect any polyps or cancer early. Screening tests can identify polyps at a stage where they can be removed before they develop into cancerous cells.
