Hidden Risks of Bowel Cancer in Common Colorectal Polyps

Recent research conducted by Flinders University and Flinders Medical Center has uncovered a significant link between specific types of polyps—benign growths in the colon—and an increased risk of developing bowel cancer. A comprehensive analysis of over 8,400 colonoscopy records revealed that individuals with both adenomas and serrated polyps are up to five times more likely to develop advanced pre-cancerous changes compared to those with only one type of polyp.

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, ranks as the second most deadly and the fourth most common newly diagnosed cancer in Australia. Most cases originate from benign polyps that line the bowel wall, but not all polyps pose the same risk. Adenomas and serrated polyps are two types that can potentially progress into cancer if left untreated.

The new study highlights that the presence of both polyp types simultaneously—referred to as synchronous lesions—substantially elevates the risk of serious disease or malignant transformation. Importantly, nearly half of patients with serrated polyps also harbored adenomas, indicating that this high-risk group may be more prevalent than previously recognized.

Dr. Molla Wassie, the lead author, emphasized the importance of early detection and regular monitoring. "Polyps are common and often harmless, but when both types appear together, the risk escalates significantly," he explained. The research supports international evidence suggesting that these two pathways—adenomas and serrated polyps—may operate independently yet concurrently in carcinogenesis.

Furthermore, serrated polyps tend to progress to cancer more rapidly than adenomas, underscoring the need for tailored colonoscopy surveillance protocols. As polyps become more frequent with age, timely removal can prevent their progression into full-blown cancer.

The findings reinforce the critical importance of adhering to scheduled colonoscopies, especially for individuals with a history of both polyp types. Early detection and intervention remain essential strategies in reducing the burden of bowel cancer.

For more detailed information, consult the study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology: "Risk of advanced colorectal neoplasia at follow-up colonoscopy after synchronous adenoma and clinically significant serrated polyp" (DOI: 10.1016/j.cgh.2025.07.023). Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-hidden-bowel-cancer-common-growths.html