Removing a Polyp Can Reduce Risk of Colon Cancer

A colon polyp is a precancerous growth which may develop in the mucosa, or lining, of the colon. A polyp can be pedunculated (mushroom shaped), sessile (flat) or a cobmination of the two. The presence of polyps in the colon increases the risk of colon cancer. The larger or more numerous the polyps are, the greater the risk.

Polyps are removed during colonoscopy through a simple and painless procedure called a polypectomy. This is accomplished using various tools to fully remove or eradicate the polyp either by cutting it off or by heating it. Once the polyp is removed or destroyed, the chance that the polyp can become cancerous is gone. Colonoscopy with polypectomy is one of the best ways to prevent colon cancer.

_Source:

American Cancer Society. "Detailed Guide: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Are the Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer?" American Cancer Society, Inc 05 Mar 2008. 24 Feb 2009.