Polyps of the colon and rectum… Signs and diagnosis
Polyps are tumors that can occur in different parts of the body, such as: the nose, colon, uterus, and stomach. Although the majority of polyps in the body are harmless, some polyps can be dangerous and may lead to some types of cancer, including colorectal cancer (CRC).
It is important to know the warning signs of polyps, how to look for, test and treat, the increased risk factors, and the role they play in the development of colorectal cancer.
– Appendices of the digestive system
A healthy and proper digestive system enables our bodies to get the nutrients we need to stay healthy. It is a group of organs that work together to help our bodies digest and process food. After the food is chewed and swallowed, it goes down into the esophagus and stomach; It is broken down by stomach acids and enzymes. From there, it travels to the small intestine; Where most nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. The remaining waste passes into the large intestine – also known as the colon – where water is absorbed and waste is converted into stool. This waste is then removed from the body during a bowel movement.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a disease of the gastrointestinal tract that often develops as a result of the growth of harmful polyps.
> Signs of polyps development: The development of polyps in the colon or rectum prevents the digestive system from doing its job. Depending on the size and location of the tumor, it can obstruct the normal flow of stool, causing anemia, constipation, diarrhoea, bleeding or abdominal pain.
If the tumor is cancerous and turns malignant, it will invade the surrounding tissues, resulting in metastatic colorectal cancer. For any changes in bowel habits or persistent gastrointestinal discomfort, consult your primary care physician immediately.
Most people do not have any signs or symptoms of polyps. Therefore, everyone should receive the recommended screenings on time. The colorectal cancer screening test is an easy and quick method for early diagnosis and treatment.
Types of benign polyps: Polyps in the colon and rectum are often benign, meaning they are not cancer. Each of us may have one or more of these appendages. It becomes more common with age. There are many types of benign tumors, namely:
Adenomatous polyps are the most common. They are gland-like tumors that develop on the mucous membrane that lines the large intestine. It is often one of the following:
1- A tubular appendage protruding into the cavity of the colon.
2- A benign villous tumor, which is sometimes flat and diffuse, and is likely to become cancerous. When adenomas become cancerous, they are called adenomas. It is the most common type of colorectal cancer.
3- Hyperplastic adenoids, which rarely develop into cancer.
4- Serrated polyps, the least common, but may develop into cancer over time. Benign tumors larger than 1 cubic centimeter in size are more likely to turn into cancer than benign tumors less than 1 cubic centimeter in size.
Cancer occurrence
> Transformation of polyps into colorectal cancer: Most cases of colorectal cancer (CRC) develop from adenomatous polyps, which are abnormal tumors that can become cancerous, if left untreated. The exact mechanism by which benign tumors turn into CRC is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve a series of changes – or mutations – in the cells that make up the tumor.
These mutations can cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably, leading to tumor formation. Risk factors such as age, family history and race can increase the likelihood of developing polyps and colorectal cancer (CRC).
If left untreated, benign tumors can continue to grow and develop into cancerous tumors, which can spread to other parts of the body. The key to preventing CRC is to detect and remove benign tumors early, before they have a chance to become cancerous. Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can reduce the risk of polyps and CRC.
Increased risk factors for colon and rectal polyps: Between 15-40 percent of adults will develop colon polyps, according to the US National Institutes of Health (NIH). It’s not clear why some people develop colon and rectal polyps while others don’t. However, some factors have been associated with an increased risk of colorectal adenomas, including:
Age: benign tumors are more common in people over 50 years of age.
A family history of polyps or colorectal cancer.
A personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (not to be confused with inflammatory bowel syndrome, which does not pose an increased risk of polyps or cancer).
Not doing enough exercise.
Not following a balanced diet.
Excessive alcohol consumption.
– smoking.
To reduce your risk factors for colorectal polyps and cancer, it’s important to lead a healthy lifestyle, talk to your doctor about any changes or concerns in your digestive health, and get screened early.
Polyp tests
Fortunately, there are many ways to test polyps in the colon and rectum, including the following:
Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy is the most effective way to check for polyps of the colon and rectum. It is performed under a light anesthetic to help you sleep safely. The doctor uses a flexible tube equipped with a camera to examine the entire colon and rectum. If any growths are found, they may be removed during the procedure and sent to a laboratory for further testing.
Flexible sigmoidoscopy: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is similar to a colonoscopy, except that it only checks the lower part of the colon and rectum. If polyps are found, they are removed, and a full colonoscopy is completed.
Virtual colonoscopy: Virtual colonoscopy uses a computerized tomography (CT scan) to create a detailed picture of the colon and rectum. While it can detect most benign tumors, it cannot be removed. Therefore, a colonoscopy is still needed.
Fecal blood test: Fecal Blood Test checks for blood in the stool. If found, it could indicate benign tumors and will require further testing.
Stool DNA test: The Stool DNA Test looks for changes in DNA that may indicate the presence of polyps or cancer. There are many different options available for testing for the presence of polyps. The earlier it is taken, the better the result.
The majority of benign tumors are not cancerous. But some of them may be cancerous. By testing and removing them, he may be averted from developing colorectal cancer in the future.
Treatment and prevention
• Treatment of polyps of the colon and rectum: polyps of the colon and rectum must be removed; Because some of them can develop into cancer. In most cases, polyps are removed during a colonoscopy.
For people with adenomatous polyps, new polyps can appear in the future. They should have a repeat colonoscopy, usually after 1 to 10 years, depending on: age – general health – number of polyps – size and type of polyps – family history of polyps or cancer.
In rare cases, when polyps are very likely to turn into cancer or are too large to be removed during a colonoscopy, a colectomy may be recommended.
If cancer is diagnosed, surgery may be recommended to remove the parts of the colon or rectum that are affected. Treatment may also include radiotherapy or chemotherapy.
The outlook is excellent if the polyps are removed; However, polyps that are not removed can turn into cancer over time.
After removing the polyps, the patient needs to repeat the endoscopy. The timing of your next colonoscopy depends on several factors, including the type, number and size of polyps removed.
• Prevention: To reduce the risk of developing polyps, you must first:
Eat low-fat foods, and eat more fruits, vegetables and fiber.
– Do not smoke or drink alcohol
Maintain a normal body weight.
Do regular exercise.
secondly, having a colonoscopy or other screening tests; All adults should start these tests at age 45, as they help prevent colon cancer by detecting and removing polyps before they become cancerous. This may reduce the chance of developing colon cancer, or at least help when it is in its most treatable stage.
Taking aspirin, naproxen, ibuprofen, or similar medications may help reduce the risk of new polyps. It should be taken with the advice of a doctor, in order to avoid dangerous side effects if taken for a long time.
Because polyps can lead to colorectal cancer, it is important to complete regular screening exams. People at high risk of colorectal cancer should begin routine screening at age 45. People with a family history of colorectal cancer and other risk factors may need to start screening at an earlier age.
While colorectal cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in the United States, it is highly preventable and treatable. Therefore, regular check-ups and lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in our lifetime.
Community medicine consultant
2023-08-17 20:30:51
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