| Because early treatment is most important for colorectal cancer, it is best to prevent cancer progression through regular screening for differential occult blood tests every 1 to 2 years and colonoscopy every 3 to 5 years. |
A colon polyp or polyp refers to a part of the intestinal mucosa that protrudes from the surrounding mucosal surface and is formed like a lump. Polyps can occur in the digestive tract or any organ with mucous membranes in our body. Among them, colorectal polyp is a fairly common disease and can be found at any age, but after the age of 40, the incidence is higher as the age increases. There are several types of polyps such as adenomatous, hyperplastic, and inflammatory polyps depending on the histologic findings. Since double adenoma develops into colorectal cancer, it is very important to have a colonoscopy at the age of 50, even if there are no symptoms, to prevent colorectal cancer.
The exact cause of colon polyps is still unknown. However, based on the research results so far, it is estimated that various causes, such as constitution, heredity, and dietary habits, act in a complex way, promoting the occurrence and growth of polyps, leading to the development of cancer. Colonoscopy is the most accurate test for diagnosing polyps, and has the advantage of being able to biopsy and remove the polyp immediately when it is found. When performing colonoscopy, it is very important to adjust food according to the guidance of the medical staff, to be well aware of how to take a bowel cleansing agent, and to inform the medical staff about the medications you are taking before the procedure. In particular, if you are taking an anticoagulant such as aspirin or an antiplatelet drug, you should consult with the medical staff who prescribes the drug and stop the drug 3 to 5 days before the procedure.
The method of removing a colorectal polyp depends on its size. Polyps smaller than 5 mm can be removed by plucking them off with a small tool or by burning them with an electric device. Polyps over 5mm are cut by incision under the colonoscopy by inserting a wire that looks like a snare through the passage of the endoscope. The removed polyps are the basis for determining the specific type of polyps through biopsy, and determining the risk of developing colorectal cancer and the duration of colonoscopy. If the risk is low and the polyp has been completely resected, it is recommended to be examined after 3 to 5 years. If it is unclear whether the polyp is completely removed, or if there are multiple polyps, or if the size is more than 1 cm, you should get an examination within a shorter period. If cancer cells are found in the biopsy of the removed polyp, additional tests or surgery may be required. Because early treatment is most important for colorectal cancer, it is best to prevent cancer progression through regular screening for differential occult blood tests every 1 to 2 years and colonoscopy every 3 to 5 years.
kty@heraldcorp.com
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