Colon polyps are growths that stick out from the lining of the intestine. They usually do not cause symptoms. There are three different kinds of colon polyps.

Hyperplastic polyps are usually small in size. They usually don't cause any problems and are found by accident. They do not turn into cancer.

Nonneoplastic mucosal polyps are generally bigger polyps. They also do not turn into cancer. The only way they can interfere with your health is by getting in the way of your intestinal tract.

The third type of colon polyps, Adenomas, are neoplastic polyps. Adenomas are present in 30 percent of people over age 50. If you have one, you may not have any symptoms. Some adenomas stay harmless. However, others may become malignant or cancerous. The larger the adenoma, the more likely this is. It takes about five years for a medium-size adenoma to develop and about ten years for a cancer to develop. This gives you plenty of time to get tested.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force suggests a yearly test for blood in the stool. This occult blood test given to men and women over the age of 50. They also recommend screening by flexible sigmoidoscopy every three to five years beginning at age 50. This procedure allows your healthcare provider to actually look at the inside of the lower part of the colon. You are at high risk of colorectal cancer if you have:

• a relative with colorectal cancer,
• a history of multiple polyps,
• a previous colorectal adenoma, or
• ulcerative colitis.

Those at high risk may have a procedure called a colonoscopy. This is another kind of visual inspection of the colon. Remember that any cancerous growth is best treated if found early. This gives the best chance of complete recovery.

If you have any changes in your bowel habits, including blood in your stool, pain, or changes in the shape of the stool, contact your healthcare provider.

For more information about colon polyps and colon cancer, contact the American Cancer Society at (800) ACS-2345 or the National Cancer Institute at (800) 4-CANCER.

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