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What Are The Causes of Black Stool?

Colon polyps

Colon polyps are small noncancerous growths in the colon that may become cancerous over time [6]. You can have them for years without developing any noticeable symptoms. Sometimes they cause bleeding and cause small amounts of blood to blacken your stool.

There are several reasons a person may develop colon polyps, but researchers have not narrowed down the cause. Genetics and lifestyle factors like obesity, smoking, and overconsumption of red meat and processed foods are believed to play a role in the development of this condition. Because these polyps sometimes precede cancer, doctors try to remove them if they are found before that happens.