Colon polyps are growths on the inside lining of your colon (large intestine). They are a type of tumor, a cluster or mass of abnormal cells. 

Colon polyps are common, and many are harmless. But some types can grow into cancer if they aren’t removed. While polyps aren’t cancer, almost all colorectal cancer starts from a polyp. 

People of all ethnicities and genders are at risk of colon polyps and colon cancer. Getting older is also a risk factor for developing polyps, which is why it’s recommended that people start having colorectal cancer screenings at age 45. Colonoscopy is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening. 

Certain genetic syndromes can also predispose people to developing colon polyps and colorectal cancer. A significant family history of colon polyps, particularly pre-cancerous polyps, may also result in more frequent monitoring, and potentially earlier monitoring, than average-risk patients. 

Possible symptoms of colon polyps are signs of colorectal bleeding when you go to toilet for bowel movement/defecation and also unexplained poop changes or start seeing excess mucus. These symptoms have many more likely causes than polyps, but it’s recommended to do screening specially if you don’t know the cause. 

Are all colon polyps pre-cancerous? 

There are several different kinds of colon polyps and some can actually be benign. Not all of them will turn into cancer. They just have the potential. That’s why they are considered “pre-cancerous,” and removing polyps during a colonoscopy is a standard part of colorectal cancer screening. 

References: 

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15370-colon-polyps
https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/colon-polyps—10-things-to-know.h00-159538167.html