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RECTAL POLYPS Polyps are abnormal growths rising from the lining of the large intestine (colon or rectum). The rectum is the last 12 inches of the large intestine. Polyps may be flat (sessile) or develop on a stalk like broccoli. This is called a pedunculated polyp. Polyps are one of the most common conditions affecting the large intestine occurring in 15-20 percent of the adult population. Most polyps are asymptomatic and never turn into cancer. However, a small percentage of polyps can slowly grow and develop over 8-10 years into rectal cancer. Almost all rectal cancers develop from polyps. Malignant potential of polyps are associated with the presence of dysplasia or pre-cancerous changes, the type of polyp, and the size of the polyp. Types of polyps Tubular adenoma - 5% risk of cancer Tubulo-villous adenoma – 20% risk of cancer Villous adenoma – 40% risk of cancer Size of polyp <1cm - <1% risk of cancer 1-2cm – 10% risk of cancer >2cm – 15% risk of cancer