Colon polyps are growths that occur on the lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum). They typically do not cause symptoms, although larger polyps can bleed or cause a change in bowel habits. Some polyps have the potential to turn into colon cancer, which is why they are completely removed at the time of a colonoscopy. Risk factors for developing polyps include obesity, smoking, red meat and alcohol consumption, and a family history of colon polyps and colon cancer.
