Colorectal polyps are growths that develop on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most polyps are benign, some types, particularly certain adenomas and serrated polyps, can gradually develop into colorectal cancer over time. Many polyps do not cause noticeable symptoms and may only be discovered during routine screening.
Colonoscopy can help identify these growths and, where appropriate, remove them for further examination. Visiting a colonoscopy clinic Singapore can therefore be an important step for people who require colorectal screening or have concerning symptoms. A colonoscopy clinic in Singapore can assess individual risk factors and determine whether colonoscopy is appropriate.
Different Types of Colorectal Polyps
Colorectal polyps can differ in their appearance, size and potential to develop into colorectal cancer. Some are considered low risk, while others may require closer monitoring or removal during colonoscopy.
- Adenomatous Polyps (Adenomas): These are common precancerous polyps. Some adenomas can gradually develop into colorectal cancer, particularly when they are larger or have certain microscopic features. They may be classified as tubular, villous or tubulovillous adenomas.
- Hyperplastic Polyps: These are generally considered to have a low risk of becoming cancerous, especially when they are small and located in the rectum or sigmoid colon.
- Serrated Polyps: This group includes different types of polyps. Some, such as sessile serrated lesions, can have precancerous potential and may require removal and follow-up.
The type, size and number of polyps found during a colonoscopy can help determine the appropriate follow-up plan.
What Causes Colorectal Polyps and Who Is At Risk?
The exact cause of colorectal polyps is not always clear. They can develop when cells in the lining of the colon or rectum grow and divide abnormally. Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing polyps, including:
- Age: The risk generally increases as people get older.
- Family History: Having a close relative with colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer may increase personal risk.
- Personal History: People who have previously had colorectal polyps may be more likely to develop them again.
- Inherited Conditions: Conditions such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) can increase the risk of colorectal polyps and colorectal cancer.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Long-standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease affecting the colon may increase colorectal cancer risk.
- Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excess alcohol consumption, being overweight and a diet low in fibre may also be associated with a higher risk.
Having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that a person will develop polyps. A gastro specialist can assess individual risk and advise whether colorectal screening or colonoscopy may be appropriate.
Symptoms That May Be Associated With Colorectal Polyps
Many colorectal polyps do not cause noticeable symptoms, particularly when they are small. They are often discovered during routine screening or colonoscopy. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Rectal bleeding
- Blood in the stool
- Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent constipation or diarrhoea
- Abdominal discomfort or cramping
- Iron-deficiency anaemia due to slow blood loss
These symptoms can have many possible causes and do not necessarily mean that colorectal polyps or cancer are present. However, persistent or unexplained symptoms should be assessed by a doctor.
How A Colonoscopy Detects Colorectal Polyps
A colonoscopy allows a gastro specialist to examine the lining of the colon and rectum using a flexible tube with a small camera. Before the procedure, patients will need to follow bowel preparation instructions to clear the colon so that abnormalities can be seen clearly. During the procedure, the gastro specialist can identify colorectal polyps and assess their size, number and appearance.
Where appropriate, polyps can be removed during the same procedure and sent to a laboratory for further examination. This helps determine the type of polyp and whether it contains precancerous or cancerous changes. Colonoscopy can therefore play an important role in both detecting and removing colorectal polyps, helping to reduce the risk of some polyps progressing to colorectal cancer.
When Should You Visit A Colonoscopy Clinic Singapore?
A colonoscopy may be recommended for screening, investigating symptoms or monitoring people with a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Speaking with a gastro specialist may be appropriate if you:
- Are within the recommended age range for colorectal cancer screening
- Have a personal history of colorectal polyps
- Have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
- Experience persistent changes in bowel habits
- Notice blood in your stool or rectal bleeding
- Have unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia
The appropriate timing for a colonoscopy depends on factors such as age, symptoms, family history and previous colonoscopy findings.
Why Follow-Up Matters After Colorectal Polyps Are Found
Finding colorectal polyps does not necessarily mean that a person has cancer. However, some types of polyps can have precancerous potential, so appropriate follow-up is important after they are detected and removed. The recommended surveillance interval may depend on factors such as:
- Number of polyps found
- Size of the polyps
- Type of polyps
- Microscopic features identified during laboratory examination
- Whether the polyps were completely removed
- Personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Some people may require another colonoscopy after a specific interval, while others may not need one for several years.
Conclusion
Colorectal polyps are common and often cause no symptoms, but some types can develop into colorectal cancer over time. Screening and timely colonoscopy can help detect polyps early and allow appropriate treatment or follow-up.
If you have symptoms, risk factors or concerns about colorectal polyps, consider speaking with a gastro specialist about whether a colonoscopy is appropriate for you. Visit our clinic to discuss your condition, at:
Gastrohealth Clinic @ Gleneagles – Dr Bhavesh Doshi | Gastroscopy | Colonoscopy | Health Screening | EUS and ERCP Singapore
6A Napier Rd, #05-35C Gleneagles Hospital Annexe Block, Singapore 258500
Phone: +65 6355 5773
