Colon Cancer & Polyps
Why early detection matters
Colon cancer grows in the large intestine or rectum. Most of the time, it starts as a small growth called a polyp. Not all polyps turn into cancer. But removing them gets rid of the risk.
Colon cancer in Canada
- 1It's the 3rd most common cancer in Canada
- 2About 1 in 14 men and 1 in 18 women will get it in their lifetime
- 3When found early (Stage I), more than 9 out of 10 people survive
- 4When found late (Stage IV), only about 1 in 7 people survive
- 5Regular screening can prevent up to 60% of deaths from colon cancer
What are polyps?
Polyps are small growths inside the colon. They are very common — about 1 in 3 people over age 50 have them.
Hyperplastic polyps
Low riskUsually small. Found in the lower colon. These almost never turn into cancer.
Adenomatous polyps (adenomas)
Moderate riskThe most common type that can turn into cancer over 10 to 15 years. This is why they are removed during a colonoscopy.
Sessile serrated polyps
Moderate to High riskFlat growths that can be harder to see. They have a higher chance of becoming cancer. This is why a thorough exam matters.
Visual Guide: Polyp Types
How different polyp types appear on the colon wall
The polyp-to-cancer journey
Most colon cancers grow slowly from polyps over 10 to 15 years. This slow growth is why screening works so well. There is a big window of time to find and remove polyps before they become dangerous. A colonoscopy stops this process by removing polyps during the exam.