About Polyps
- Most colorectal cancers start as tiny growths on the lining of the colon.
- These growths are called polyps. Most are very small, often smaller than a pencil eraser.
- Most polyps are pre-cancerous, meaning they could turn into cancer if not found early enough.
- Pre-cancerous polyps are called adenomas.
- By age 50, about 25% (or 1 of 4) people has pre-cancerous polyps.
- By age 75, about 50% (or 1 of 2) people has pre-cancerous polyps.
- Most polyps do not cause symptoms
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With screening, polyps can be found and removed BEFORE they become cancer.
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Screening can PREVENT colorectal cancer.