No, sorry, we’re not talking about sea anemones. That’s Dr. Fong in another multiverse timeline.
Colon polyps are growths inside the lining of the colon or rectum. While most are benign (non-cancerous), some can develop into colon cancer over time, which is why detecting and removing them early—usually during a colonoscopy—is so important. Sometimes you get a colonoscopy report and you see the word “polyp” and panic sets in. But not all polyps are panic-worthy– in fact, most aren’t– so understanding the different types of polyps may help you and your doctor determine your cancer risk and plan follow-up care appropriately. This is a general medical post for information only, and should not constitute medical advice.
These are the most common type of polyp that have the potential to turn into cancer. 2 out of 3 polyps removed during colonoscopy are adenomas.
Subtypes of adenomas include:
Tubular adenomas (most common and usually small)
Villous adenomas (less common but higher cancer risk)
Tubulovillous adenomas (a mix of both tubular and villous adenomas with higher cancer risk than )
Cancer risk: Moderate to high depending on size and structure
Follow-up: Colonoscopy typically every 3–5 years if one or more are found
These are usually small and found in the left colon and rectum. Most are harmless and caused by irritation to the colon lining, as in constipation.
Cancer risk: Very low, unless part of a condition called serrated polyposis syndrome
Follow-up: May not require close surveillance unless multiple or large polyps are found
These flat or slightly raised polyps are often found in the right colon and are more difficult to detect.
Cancer risk: High if left untreated—SSAs are thought to be precursors to 20–30% of colorectal cancers
Follow-up: Closer monitoring, often every 3–5 years
These are typically seen in people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
Cancer risk: Low from the polyps themselves, but chronic inflammation increases overall risk of colon cancer in people with long-term IBD
Follow-up: Surveillance depends on extent and duration of IBD
These are rare and usually part of genetic syndromes like Peutz-Jeghers or Juvenile Polyposis.
Cancer risk: Depends on the underlying syndrome
Follow-up: Requires genetic counseling and frequent screening
Not all polyps are dangerous—but some are a red flag for future cancer risk. The key is early detection and appropriate surveillance. If you’ve had polyps removed during a colonoscopy, ask your doctor what type they were and when your next screening should be.
Prevention starts with knowledge—understand your polyps, and stay ahead of colorectal cancer.
Until next time, that’s just the way the anus wrinkles.
