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How are polyps usually found? 

Colon polyps are usually found during colorectal cancer screenings. But polyps located elsewhere are typically found only when they start causing problems. So, a professional singer might notice her voice changing, for instance, if she has polyps on her vocal cords. Or someone might have a gallbladder attack because a polyp formed where a stone was irritating the duct.  

Normally, something needs to be malfunctioning for us to know something¡¯s wrong. But people very rarely suspect a polyp as the source of their troubles. Only a physician can diagnose them. 

Do all polyps need to be removed? 

No. But generally speaking, polyps only come to our attention when they are causing problems. So, if we can safely remove them through a minor procedure, we will. If we can¡¯t, we might just monitor them closely.  

People with some genetic conditions can have hundreds ¡ª or even thousands ¡ª of polyps lining their intestinal tract. We can¡¯t remove those individually. That¡¯s why the current recommendation for those patients is to have their colon removed by age 30 to reduce their risk of developing cancer. 

Are polyps cancerous?

Most polyps are not cancerous, but some can become cancerous. That¡¯s why those are called ¡°pre-cancerous.¡±  

A nasal polyp caused by allergies, for instance, is unlikely to become cancerous. But a polyp in the stomach or the colon due to a genetic mutation has a much higher chance, especially if it¡¯s large. Polyps caused by genetic mutations have the highest likelihood of becoming cancerous. 

Do polyps increase your risk of developing cancer? 

That depends on what¡¯s causing them. If they¡¯re caused by an inherited genetic disorder like those noted above, then yes. If they¡¯re caused by environmental factors, then it¡¯s much less likely. But if you have a history of precancerous colon polyps, you may need to be screened more often.  

Should I worry if I have polyps? 

No. Not unless you have a family history of polyps. If you do, speak with your physician. But don¡¯t worry that you might have one if you don¡¯t have any symptoms. 

Can polyps be prevented? 

There¡¯s no guaranteed way to prevent polyps, but you can reduce your chances of developing them by following the same recommendations you would to prevent cancer. Specifically: 

• Maintain a healthy body weight. 
• Exercise regularly. 
• Consume a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds with lean protein. 
• Limit your consumption of sugar, red meat, cured meats and highly processed foods.   
• Avoid tobacco products and alcoholic drinks. 
• Get regular cancer screenings at the recommended intervals. 

, is a medical oncologist specializing in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers.?? 

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