Do you have colon polyps? Don't worry, let's talk about it!

Have you ever heard of 'colon polyps'? Maybe your doctor has mentioned them, or maybe they have suggested that you get tested. Many people get a little scared when they hear the name, because they have heard that they can be cancerous. But what are they really? Are all polyps dangerous? Let's talk about this simply and clearly to clear up any questions you may have about them.

What are these colon polyps?

Simply put, these are small, extra growths that form on the inner wall of your colon or rectum. Think of them as little bumps on your skin. Most of these are harmless, benign growths .

However, some types of tumors can become cancerous if left untreated for a long time. This is why doctors advise removing them as soon as you see them. The important thing is that between 15% and 40% of adults may have these types of tumors. This means that it is not as uncommon as you might think. People over the age of 50 and men are especially likely to develop them.

Why do these occur? What are the risk factors?

These tumors are often caused by certain changes (mutations) in the genes of our intestinal cells. Although it is not possible to say exactly why these changes occur, certain things can increase the risk of developing these tumors.

Anyone can develop these, but the risk is higher if you have the following conditions:

In addition, some rare hereditary conditions can also increase this risk. For example, a condition called `Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)` can cause hundreds or even thousands of polyps to develop at a young age. `Lynch Syndrome` is another such hereditary condition. If your family has a history of this, it is important to talk to your doctor about genetic testing and early screening.

Are there types of intestinal tumors?

Yes, not all tumors are the same. Doctors classify them based on how they look under a microscope. Some types are more likely to become cancerous, while others are not.

• Adenomatous polyps / Adenomas: About 70% of colon polyps are of this type. The majority of colon cancers start with this type of polyp . However, it usually takes years for this type of polyp to become cancerous. That is why it is important to detect and remove it early.
• Serrated polyps: These are named because their edges resemble the teeth of a saw. There are also subtypes of this type that can become cancerous.
• Hyperplastic polyps: These are unlikely to become cancerous.
• Inflammatory polyps: These are not actually true polyps. They form in response to long-term infections or inflammation in the colon. They are not cancerous.

What are the symptoms of this?

Here's what surprises many people: The majority of colon tumors have no symptoms. You may not even know you have one. Most often, they are found during a test done for another reason.

However, sometimes, especially when the cysts are a bit larger, the following symptoms may appear:

• Blood in the stool: Things like seeing blood stains in the toilet, blood on the toilet paper.
• Change in stool color: stool that is black or has red streaks (this indicates that blood has been mixed in).
• Change in bowel function: constipation or diarrhea lasting more than a week.
• Stomach ache or pain: Sometimes a large tumor can cause intestinal obstruction and cause stomach pain.
• Fatigue and extreme fatigue: This occurs because the continuous bleeding from the cysts causes a lack of iron in the body, leading to anemia.

Very important: Don't be afraid to assume that you have a colon tumor or cancer just because you have these symptoms. These symptoms can also be caused by other simple causes, such as hemorrhoids. However, if you have any of these symptoms, don't ignore them and definitely see your doctor for advice.

How are these diagnosed and treated?

The best way to prevent colon cancer is to detect and remove these tumors early. There are several screening methods for this.

• Colonoscopy: This is the most common and accurate method. In this, you are given an anesthetic (so you don't feel anything), and a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached is inserted through your anus to examine your entire large intestine.
• The best part: During this test, the doctor can also remove any polyps that are there (polypectomy) . The polyps are then sent to the lab to be tested for cancer cells.
• Other tests: Although there are methods such as `CT Colonography` (virtual colonoscopy) and stool tests, if a tumor is suspected, a colonoscopy must be performed to confirm and remove it.

Once a cyst is removed, it will not come back. However, once a cyst is removed, there is a 30% chance that a new cyst will develop in another location . Therefore, your doctor will often recommend that you have another checkup in 3-5 years. It is very important to follow these instructions.

Can these be prevented from occurring?

Although we cannot change genetic causes, we can reduce the risk of developing these tumors by changing our lifestyle.

• A good diet: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods (beans, lentils, chickpeas, brown rice).
• Weight control: If you are overweight, try to lose weight.
• Things to limit: Limit red meat, cured meats (like sausages, bacon), and fatty foods.
• Smoking and alcohol: It is best to stop these habits completely.
• Exercise: Exercise vigorously at least a few days a week.
• Talk to your doctor: Ask your doctor if taking medications like calcium, vitamin D, or aspirin is appropriate for you, based on your family history. Never use medications long-term without medical advice.