What Is Colon Polyps?
Colon polyps are small cell that grow on the lining of the colon [1] or large intestine. Most colon polyps are not harmful. But it can develop into a colon cancer, which may be fatal when found in its later stages. This is why it is best that your doctor takes out any colon polyps to avoid colon cancer [2].
Colon polyps are found in 30% of adult population, men and women over the age of 45-50. There is no particular vaccine to prevent colon polyps, however, there are certain factors that increases the risk or rate of these changes that we can guide against. These factors are related to your diet, lifestyle and genetics or hereditary issues. Some lifestyle factors predisposing to colon polyps or cancer include; smoking, excess alcohol ingestion, eating processed food, being overweight, and not exercising.
There are different types of colon polyp [3] and they appear to be microscopic. They often do not show any signs and symptoms. Which makes it important to have regular screening test such as a colonoscopy [4], the reason is that if discovered in the early stage, a surgery can be done to remove it safely and completely. Regular screening is the best prevention and removal of colon polyps to avoid colon cancer.