Colon polyps quesrion

[Neecie1980]

I had my first colonoscopy at 37, and they found 6 polyps. I was told they weren’t cancerous and I should not need another one for 10 years. I am wondering if it is uncommon to have polyps in my thirties, it seems like everything I read it is more prevalent in older age. Also, six seems like a lot. Is this concerning?

[Mcarps]

I don't believe it is unusual to have colon polyps in your thirties. At least it's probably not unusual anymore, as colon cancer is being diagnosed at younger and younger ages. I would think that if you had non cancerous polyps that they would want to look again within 1-5 years just to be on the safe side. I would ask your GI doc.

[mondlee6248]

How big is your polyps, did they mention to you??

[Neecie1980 in reply to mondlee6248]

4 diminutive and 2 were 5mm.

None were precancer.

[Nicole_GCCA Partner]

Hi Neecie1980 ,

Thanks for posting and sharing with us. It might be worth consulting a second specialist (or even having a further discussion with your current gastroenterologist) regarding the 10-year screening surveillance that they suggested.

It is very common that we hear "next colonoscopy in 10 years, all good!" for people with no family history and no polyps removed. I am NOT a doctor and will also recommend for all people posting here to discuss with their doctors. What I can share, is that from people I've spoken with, having 6 polyps removed, might mean a recommended screening in 5 or 7 years. But of course, this is something to discuss with your doctor.

Do you have any family history of colon cancer, or other cancers?

Not all polyps turn into colon cancer, and some people are more prone to developing non-cancerous polyps.

Sounds like a good time to reach out to your specialist to ask about their reasoning on the 10 years.

Please keep us posted.

~Nicole @ GCCA

[Dalph87]

Its not impossible to have them in your 30s but not even common, especially so many. Do you have family history? Colon Polypuses are more common after 50 or if you have family history of them.

[Pipinha]

You have blood?