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Colon Polyps in Singapore: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

DrGanesh DP 2
Dr Ganesh Ramalingam

Specialist in General Surgery

Condition

Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are abnormal growths that develop on the inner lining of the colon. While many colon polyps are non-cancerous, some may gradually develop into colorectal cancer over time if left untreated.

At G&L Surgical, we assess and manage a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, including colon polyps, with a focus on early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.

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Table of Contents

Colon Polyps

What Are Polyps in the Colon?

Colon polyps are small growths that form along the inner wall of the colon (large intestine). They can vary in size, shape, and number. Some polyps remain harmless, while others may become pre-cancerous over time.

Common types of colon polyps include:

  • Adenomatous polyps (adenomas)
    These are considered pre-cancerous and may develop into colorectal cancer if left untreated.
  • Hyperplastic polyps
    Usually small and less likely to become cancerous.
  • Serrated polyps
    Certain serrated polyps may carry a higher cancer risk depending on their size and location.

Because it is difficult to determine which polyps may become cancerous just by appearance alone, doctors often recommend removing them when detected.

Are Colon Polyps Cancerous?

Not all colon polyps are cancerous. However, some types of polyps can gradually turn into colorectal cancer over time.

The risk of cancer may increase if:

  • The polyp is large
  • Multiple polyps are present
  • The polyp has abnormal or pre-cancerous cells
  • There is a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps

In many cases, colorectal cancer begins as a small polyp that slowly grows over several years. This is why screening and early removal of colon polyps are important. Detecting and removing polyps early may help prevent colorectal cancer from developing.

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Colon Polyps Symptoms

Many colon polyps do not cause noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages.

When symptoms do occur, they may include:

Because symptoms are often absent, many colon polyps are only discovered during a colonoscopy performed for screening or investigation of digestive symptoms.

What Causes Colon Polyps?

The exact cause of colon polyps is not always clear, but they are linked to abnormal cell growth in the lining of the colon.

Factors that may increase the risk of developing colon polyps include:

  • Age above 50
  • Family history of colon polyps or colorectal cancer
  • Obesity or excess abdominal weight
  • Smoking and alcohol use
  • Low-fibre or highly processed diets
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
  • Certain inherited conditions such as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) or Lynch syndrome

Patients with multiple risk factors may benefit from earlier or more frequent screening.

How Are Colon Polyps Diagnosed?

Colon polyps are most commonly diagnosed through a colonoscopy.

During a colonoscopy:

  • A thin flexible tube with a camera is inserted through the rectum
  • The lining of the colon is examined for abnormalities
  • Polyps can often be removed during the same procedure
  • Tissue samples may be sent for laboratory analysis (biopsy)

A colonoscopy remains the gold standard for detecting and removing colon polyps.

Other tests that may help detect abnormalities include:

  • CT colonography
  • Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
  • Stool DNA testing
  • Sigmoidoscopy
  • Barium enema

However, if polyps are detected on these tests, a colonoscopy may still be required for removal and further assessment.

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Colon Polyp Removal in Singapore

Most colon polyps can be removed safely during a colonoscopy without the need for major surgery.

Colon polyp removal is typically:

  • Minimally invasive
  • Performed as a day procedure
  • Done under sedation for patient comfort

Removing colon polyps is important because it helps reduce the risk of colorectal cancer developing in the future.

Learn more about the procedure on our dedicated Polyp Removal page.

Who Should Consider a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy may be recommended for patients who:

  • Are aged 45–50 years and above
  • Have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
  • Have persistent bowel habit changes
  • Experience blood in stool
  • Have unexplained abdominal symptoms or anaemia
  • Previously had colon polyps removed

Early screening allows polyps to be detected and removed before they become cancerous.

Book a Consultation for Colon Polyps in Singapore

If you have digestive symptoms, a positive stool test, previous polyps, or concerns about colorectal cancer risk, early assessment is important.

At G&L Surgical, we provide evaluation and management for colon polyps and related gastrointestinal conditions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Most colon polyps do not disappear on their own and may continue to grow slowly over time.

No. Many colon polyps are benign, but certain types may become cancerous if left untreated.

Growth rates vary. Some polyps may take years to develop into cancer, which is why regular screening is important.

Colon polyp removal is usually performed during a colonoscopy under sedation, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.

The removed polyp itself usually does not return. However, some patients may develop new polyps in the future, which is why follow-up colonoscopy may be advised.