Polyps are abnormal growths of cells from mucous membranes, which can be found in various parts of the body. Malignant polyps can become cancerous over time, with factors such as heredity, diet, and size affecting their development. Removal and examination of polyps is necessary to determine if they are cancerous.
Polyps are an abnormal growth of cells from the mucous membranes of the body. The cylindrical or spherical fleshy growths can be found anywhere there are mucous membranes including the colon, bladder and cervix. A malignant polyp starts out as a small, benign fleshy tumor but becomes a cancerous growth over time. Colon cancer, one of the major forms of cancer, develops from malignant polyps located on the inner lining of the large intestine. While the exact cause of malignant polyp formation is unclear, factors that can affect their development include heredity, diet, and the size of the polyp.
A number of different polyps form from the mucous membranes of the body, with varying risks of becoming cancerous. Nasal polyps are found in the nose and sinuses and are benign. Endometrial polyps occur in the uterus and rarely become malignant if formed before menopause. The risk of malignant polyps growing in the uterus increases during and after menopause. A very small percentage of cervical polyps become cancerous, while large polyps in the bladder can become malignant.
A polyp extends from the mucous membranes lining the organs of the body and takes a mushroom shape with a stalk or a flatter, button-like shape with a broad base. Although commonly encountered and frequently benign, most polyps removed from the body undergo a biopsy to determine if they contain cancerous cells. Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer and develops from specific growths of malignant polyps called adenomatous polyps. These polyps, also known as adenomas, are the most common type to develop in the colon. Only a small percentage of adenomas will become malignant.
Factors influencing the formation of a malignant polyp include diet and nutrient intake. Colon cancer studies have found that a diet high in fat and low in fiber can increase the growth of malignant polyps. A low calcium content in the diet can also increase the risk of cancerous polyps forming. Other factors that can increase this risk include increasing age, smoking, and heredity. Also, the larger the polyp, the more likely it is to become cancerous.
Researchers have found that a sedentary lifestyle can also contribute to the formation of cancerous polyps. An increased risk of malignant colon polyps is found in patients with long-term inflammatory colon diseases. Obesity has also been linked to an increased risk of developing certain types of cancer, including colon cancer.
Malignant polyp growth may have no obvious symptoms, and patients may not be aware of a polyp until it is found during an exam. Some symptoms that may indicate polyp growth include bleeding, changes in bowel habit, or painful or frequent urination. Treatment generally begins with the removal and examination of the polyp to determine if it is cancerous. The healthcare provider establishes a plan for any further treatment based on the biopsy results.
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