The ‘mortal duo’ in the intestine that multiplies the risk of cancer by five

Researchers from the Flinders University and the Flinders Medical Center in Adelaida, Australia, have discovered a critical link between having Two types of polypscommon growth found in the intestine, and a Greater risk of developing colonaccording to a new study published in the magazine Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology (CGH).

He Colon canceror colorectal, is the Second type of fatal and fourth most common cancer of freshly diagnosed cancer in many parts of the world. Most bowel cancers They start as benign polypsnon -threatening growth, on the wall or the lining of the intestine, however, There are two types that can become cancer.

“Polyps are common and generally harmless, but When both types appear together (what we call synchronous injuries), The risk of severe intestinal disease or cancer increases dramatically“Molla Wassie, main author and researcher at the FHMRI Intestinal Health Service.

Adenomas and polyps serrated, possible routes for colon cancer

The new study analyzed more than 8,400 colonoscopias records and discovered that people with serrada adenomas and polyps They had up to five times more likely to develop advanced precancer changes than those with only one. Even more worrying is that Almost half of all patients with serrated polyps also had adenomaswhich suggests that this high -risk group is more widespread than previously believed.

“This is one of its largest studies. Our findings support the growing international evidence that These two types of polyps could represent cancer pathways separate that may be active at the same time, which makes Early detection and regular monitoring are even more important“says Wassie.

The study also found that Serrada polyps can progress to cancer more quickly that adenomas, which reinforces the need for Surveillance guidelines of custom colonoscopy.

“The polyps become more common as we agebut the key is to detect and eliminate them in time. If you have had both types of polyps, it is especially important to keep up with your Colonoscopias program“, he says. If he is over 45 years old or has a family history of intestinal problems, the expert recommends going to the doctor.

What are polyps?

The polyps are abnormal growth of tissue that may appear on the internal walls of organs like the intestine, the colon or the rectum. Most of them are benign and, in fact, its appearance in the intestine is common. However, some types of polyp can become a cancer if they are not treated on time.

The prevention Faced with these types of problems, it goes through a regular surveillance by doctors. It is highly recommended to perform colonoscopies from 45 years, or even before if there is a family history. In addition, it is important Avoid tobacco and alcohol, include enough fiber in the diet and maintain adequate weight and constant physical activity. In summary, Adopting healthy habits helps reduce risk.

In addition, we must immediately attend to the symptoms: bleeding in feces, intestinal rhythm changes, abdominal pain, sudden weight loss … Polyps must be detected and removed before they evolve towards cancer.

Adenomas are a type formed by glandular tissueand evolve more slowly, while serrated polyps They can progress more quickly and, in some cases, they can unnoticed in a colonoscopy due to its flat shape.