Guide To Colon Cancer Causes And Risk Factors

History Of Colon Polyps

An individual who has a history of colon polyps is at a higher risk of developing colon cancer than an individual who does not. A colon polyp is an abnormal tissue growth that occurs inside of the colon or large intestine. Polyps come in different shapes and sizes. The most common kind of polyp known to increase an individual's risk of developing colon cancer is called an adenomatous polyp. These types of polyps are often associated with mutations in the DNA of cells that make up the large intestine lining. 

This malfunction means the larger an adenomatous polyp grows, the more likely it is to incur a DNA mutation that causes the development of colon cancer. Colon polyps can only be found with a procedure referred to as a colonoscopy. Most adenomatous polyps do not produce any symptoms, so most individuals are unaware they have them until they undergo a routine colonoscopy. Colon polyps are removed as soon as they are found to prevent the development of colon cancer.