Colon Polyps (cont.)
In this Article
What is one's risk of having a polyp or cancer if a first-
degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) has had an adenomatous
polyp?
An individual with a first degree relative with an adenomatous
polyp would have a 50% (one and one-half times) greater risk of
developing colonic cancer than an individual without a relative with
polyps. The risk for adenomatous polyps is not known. The current
estimate is that 6% of the general population-which includes
individuals with relatives with and without polyps--will develop
colon cancer.
Are there ways to prevent colon polyps from developing?
First of all, there are dietary recommendations that can be made.
We know that diets high in fat and low in fiber predispose an
individual to develop colon polyps. This probably is why the incidence of colon polyps
is much higher in developed countries such as the United
States and Europe where diets are high in fat and low
in fiber. A recent study, however, did not confirm that high fiber prevents colon
polyps or cancer. We know that certain vitamins protect against colon
cancer, namely vitamins C and E. In addition, certain cruciferous
vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower protect against colon
cancer. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as aspirin
reduce the formation of polyps, although non-steroidal medications
are not advocated as a means to prevent colon polyps.
What does the future hold for screening and surveillance of
colon polyps?
Effort presently is being expended to develop a radiologic
colonoscopic test. This is a means by which CAT scan imaging can be used to evaluate the colon for the presence of colon
polyps. Preliminary studies have shown this to be relatively
accurate in detecting the presence of polyps in the colon.
Obviously, the limitation of this study is that polyps, once found,
cannot be removed immediately but must be done at a later colonoscopy
with a flexible colonoscope. Therefore, the role of the radiologic
colonoscopy may be limited to simply screening populations at lower
risk for the presence of polyps, and only those individuals found to
harbor polyps would be sent for colonoscopic excision of the polyps.
Also on the horizon are blood tests, which may determine the genetic
risk for polyps. If the test discloses genes that are associated
with a high risk for colon cancer, then the individual may enter a
program of colonoscopic screening.
Next: Are there situations in which polyps carry a very high risk of becoming cancerous? »
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