Colon Cancer

[jasonleon]

I've had two colonscopies since age 50, my first colonoscopy found a pre-cancerous polyp (had a more dangerous figure, I was told) along with other benign polyps that was which was removed (had no side effects after) I did a follow up colonscopy the year after and another pre-cancerous polyp (except to a lesser degree) was found and removed along with other benign polyps around the same area, the 2nd colonoscopy from a different surgeon I had a lot of stomach pain after. Why is it that the polyps keep reoccurring in such a short time? I heard it was uncommon but the surgeon said sometimes they may be missed the first time around. Do I have higher risks of developing colon cancer? I was told as long as I got checkups and had them removed I would be fine and have the polyps controlled.

[Ryccky]

Make sure you have regular colonoscopy checkups at least every 2 years.  Medical research also shows that daily aspirin reduces polyp formation. Varies according to strength of aspirin taken 75mg to 300mg.  Percentage reduction is high going up to around 40%.  But one should preferably take enteric coated aspirin. These do not dissolve in the stomach where they can cause bleeding but continue into the intestines which is where they do their magic.  Omega 3 oils also work to reduce polyps. https://www.thelancet.com/action/showPdf?pii=S0140-6736%2818%2931775-6

[Ryccky]

Reading medical research the answer is yes higher risk of developing cancer but to prevent this one goes for regular colonoscopies every 2 years (or less).  Personally I  have the same:  had colonoscopy 10 years ago - small polyps but not removed by the GP who was doing research.  Nov 2020 found 5 polyps. One was high grade adenoma (pre-cancerous). In UK we get free treatment on NHS but your GI physician can be anybody.  So paid for private consultation with leading colorectal Consultant.  His plan was CT scan and another colonoscopy to get baseline analysis followed by 2 yr colonoscopies.  CT scan - waiting report.  Next steps: Another colonoscopy scheduled for March 2021.  I'm requesting CEA test to get baseline reading.  I'll ask for this to be done annually.  I'll ask for colonoscopies every 18-24 months.  If CEA increases I'll ask for a PET scan to see if there are any 'hot' cells which could be cancer.