While most polyps are benign (not harmful), some types have the potential to become cancerous.
Routine screenings may be recommended to detect polyps.
Waiting on the results of a biopsy may cause anxiety and stress.
chanuth / Getty Images
If a polyp is cancerous, treatment will often begin quickly.
Continue reading to review the treatment options for cancerous polyps.
chanuth / Getty Images
Removed Polyp Is Cancerous: What Now?
When a polyp is removed and is discovered to be cancerous, a diagnosis of cancer has been determined.
Receiving news of a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming and may bring feelings of uncertainty and distress.
However, it’s important to remember that this diagnosis marks the start of the process of treatment.
In this instance, the removal of the polyp may be all that is needed for treatment.
They are often benign.
However, its been estimated that up to 12.9% of uterine polyps are cancerous.
When left-sided colon cancer develops, it is more treatable with chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
The size of a polyp also plays a role in determining cancer risk.
What Do Precancerous Polyps Mean?
Not all polyps are cancerous or even precancerous.
Precancerous polyps are abnormal growths in tissue that have the potential to develop into cancer over time.
If these polyps are not removed, they will likely become cancer in the future.
When polyps reappear after removal, it reinforces the need for continued monitoring and surveillance.
Adopting or maintaining a healthy lifestyle is an important part of living with cancerous polyps.
Based on the diagnosis, your provider will recommend a variety of treatments to provide the best outcome.
Counseling services can also offer support to people with a cancer diagnosis.
A counselor can offer emotional support and strategies to cope with the diagnosis and all that goes with it.
In addition, family and friends can play an important role.
They may comfort and encourage you, as well as support you in practical ways.
This includes making meals, providing transportation, or helping with tasks such as house cleaning or laundry.
They can offer expertise and personalized care for people on their cancer journey.
Summary
Polyps, though often benign, have the potential to become cancerous.
Treatment options vary and are personalized to the punch in and extent of cancer.
Early removal of precancerous polyps can prevent cancer.
For those who have been diagnosed with cancer, seeking support can aid emotional health at this time.
National Cancer Institute.Colon cancer treatment (PDQ)- health professional version.
April 25, 2024.
American Cancer Society.Treatment of colon cancer, by stage.
February 6, 2024.
What age should be considered for investigation?Pol Przegl Chir.
MD Anderson Cancer Center.
February 14, 2024.
May 2, 2023.
