Colon polyps are clumps of cells that form on the lining of the colon. Certain factors such as age, weight and lifestyle habits increase risk for developing colon polyps. MayoClinic.com notes that in many cases, they are non-cancerous; however, if undetected, over time the polyps can become cancerous. In some instances, polyps do not cause symptoms, which makes early detection difficult. When symptoms are present they take the form of rectal bleeding or blood in stool, obstructed bowels or abdominal pain. Physician screening for colon polyps is suggested if risk factors exist or if symptoms appear.
Cell Growth
The cause of colon polyp formation stems from different sources, starting with abnormal cell growth. MayoClinic.com explains that mutations in genes cause cells to divide continuously and unnecessarily. The continued growth in the colon and rectum area causes the polyps to form. Initially the formations may remain benign; however, the longer the polyps exist, the more likely they will transition into malignant cells. Colon cancer is often the result of untreated polyps.
Genetic Contribution
A condition referred to as familial adenomatous polyposis, or FAP, is an inherited syndrome of polyps in the colon and small intestine that turns cancerous. The Cleveland Clinic explains that this condition is genetically linked to chromosome-5 and when development begins, typically it starts in the teens. Hundreds to thousands of colon polyps form in this condition and in most cases the colon or rectum of the individual with the condition has to be removed to prevent colon cancer. A 60 to 70 percent chance of inheriting FAP is likely if one parent has the condition.
Lifestyle Factors
According to MayoClinic.com, the chance of forming colon polyps increases with risky lifestyle behavior or pre-existing medical conditions. Untreated intestinal conditions such as inflammation of the colon or colitis can cause colon polyps. Lifestyle factors such as inactivity and obesity also perpetuate the development of colon polyps as well as increase the risk of developing digestive conditions.
MedlinePlus reports that recent studies indicate a link between smoking and the development of precancerous polyps in the large intestine. The study noted that in addition to advanced flat polyps, more aggressive formations referred to as flat adenomas were present in study subjects, who were either light or heavy smokers.
