Should I Be Concerned About Polyps?

If you think you might have a polyp or have been diagnosed with one in Newport Beach, CA, let Dr. Glenn Madokoro help find the best treatment for your needs.

Are Polyps a Reason for Concern?

It can be terrifying to hear that you have polyps – especially if you’ve heard that they can be cancerous. Take a breath, though, as this is not always the case. In fact, up to 40 percent of people who have a colonoscopy are found to have polyps, and very few of those are cancerous. 

What this means is that just because you have a polyp doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. It also doesn't mean that cancer is inevitable. However, if a precancerous polyp is not addressed, it can turn to cancer.

How Are Polyps Treated?

If you have a polyp, Dr. Madokoro can typically remove it during your colonoscopy. If it’s too large, you might need a surgical procedure to remove it, but this is rare. 

Once removed, it will be sent for testing to determine if it’s cancerous or noncancerous. The next steps will depend on which type of polyp you have. The four common types are the following: 

  • Hyperplastic polyps – These are not cancer.
  • Adenomatous polyps – These are not cancer, either, but can become cancerous if not removed. 
  • Serrated adenoma – Also not cancerous but can be if not removed. 
  • Malignant polyps – This type is cancerous.

The type of polyps you have gives your doctor an insight into whether colon cancer is likely in your future. If so, additional tests and vigilance will be needed. While most people only need a colonoscopy once every 10 years after turning 45, if potentially dangerous polyps are found, Dr. Madokoro will recommend them more often.

There are some lifestyle factors that can increase your chance of developing colon cancer, such as poor diet, smoking, alcohol intake, and lack of physical activity. Dr. Madokoro will recommend changes you can make to help lower your risk. You’ll also be informed about any signs to keep an eye out for that indicate a worsening condition.

Don’t let a polyp in Newport Beach, CA scare you. Gain the information and the treatment you need by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Madokoro at (949) 548-8800.

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Our Location

PERMANENTLY CLOSED 2901 W Cst Hwy ste 200, Newp Bch, CA 92663

Office Hours

Monday:

8:30 am-12:30 pm

Tuesday:

8:30 am-3:00 pm

Wednesday:

Closed

Thursday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

Friday:

8:30 am-12:00 pm

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed