Polyps

Polyps are abnormal growths from the lining (mucosa) of the bowel. There are many different causes but polyps in the colon may have the ability to become cancerous.

These types of polyps are more common as we age. Removal of these polyps, is recommended to prevent the transformation to cancer. They typically do not cause symptoms but may be detected by faecal occult blood test or at colonoscopy. Colonic polyps are often able to be removed at the same time as a colonoscopy (see colonoscopy).