What are polyps?
You may already have heard about colon polyps. These abnormal cell growths are more likely to develop as we age. They occur in the colon and are removed during colonoscopies. The most common type resembles broccoli, with a stalk and a bulbous growth at the end.
But can polyps form anywhere else? What causes them? And, are polyps cancerous?
Read on to learn the answers to these questions and more.&...

Mother and son survivors share inspiration, passion for cancer prevention
William Lindley has been watching his mother, Faye Wright, deal with cancer for more than 25 years. He was only a teenager when she was diagnosed...
How to make colonoscopy prep better
Clear liquid diets, giant containers of prep solution, heightened nerves, and spending the majority of an evening tied to your toilet—it’s...
Colon cancer in young adults: What you need to know
Colorectal cancer cases are on the decline overall. Research shows this is because more people are getting regular colorectal cancer screenings, which can prevent precancerous polyps from becoming cancer.
But the disease is rising sharply in people under age 50, most of whom are years away from getting their first screening colonoscopy. Colorectal cancer screening isn’t recommended until age 45 for most people. And...

5 precancerous conditions and what you can do about them
You may already know that some types of colon polyps can develop into colorectal cancer. Or, that cervical dysplasia can sometimes lead to...
Young adult colon cancer survivor says support was vital during treatment
At age 26, Savannah Kaspar was a typical young adult: working, spending time with family and friends and planning trips. But after a colorectal...
Cancer in the sigmoid colon: What it means when colon cancer is on the left side
The sigmoid colon is the part of the large intestine (colon) closest to the rectum. It absorbs water from stool and pushes the stool to the...
Should you get a full-body scan to look for cancer?
Getting a full-body scan to check yourself out for possible cancers might sound like a great idea. But what are the risks and benefits? And...
Colon cancer survivor uses rubber ducks to boost awareness
Imagine this: a rubber duck, perched on a vehicle in a parking lot, with a message that could save lives.
It's not your typical beginning...
College professor: I tell my students not to make the same mistake I did
In early 2023, I had my first-ever colonoscopy. I was 68. My wife had been pushing me to get one for several years, but I felt fine and didn...