The sigmoid colon is the section of the large intestine near the end of the gastrointestinal tract. It is shaped like an S. A group of cells that grows inside the sigmoid colon is known as a sigmoid polyp, or just a colon polyp. Doctors describe a sigmoid polyp as precancerous. In other words, it may become malignant, but it may not.

Although it's a fact that a lot of sigmoid polyps never become malignant, doctors prefer to remove them if they are diagnosed. Removal is possible while you're having a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a surgical procedure in which a gastroenterologist examines the lining of the colon to be sure that there's no cancer or other colon disorders. The gastroenterologist uses a device known as a colonoscope. This diagnostic tool is a a long tube with a tiny video camera attached at the front, giving the doctor a chance to look for symptoms of colon cancer along the walls and the inside lining of the colon.

There are different types of sigmoid polyps. One type is small and flat. This variety is referred to as sedentary sigmoid polyps. Polyps they can look more like a mushroom with a stem, and is called a pedunculated polyp.

Some sigmoid polyps are small - as small as a pea. Others might be extremely large and can be the size of a golf ball. The ones are smaller and mushroom-shaped become malignant less often than the ones that that are flat and large. Typically, the bigger the sigmoid polyp, the greater the risk that it will become malignant.

There are a number of risk factors that have been associated with sigmoid polyps, including

• Getting older - sigmoid polyps are much more common after age fifty

• Becoming obese

• Use of cigarettes and other forms of tobacco

• Poor nutrition - a diet that features a lot of fatty, low fiber meals

• Genetics - if a lot of your relatives have had sigmoid polyps, you're more likely to get them too

Unless you get a colonoscopy, you might never know that you have small sigmoid polyps because there are no signs or indications. This is why is it important to have colon cancer screenings as recommended by your doctor.

There could be signs if you have large sigmoid polyps, which would include

• Bloody stools

• Stools can be noticeably narrower

• Discomfort or pain during bowel movements

• Intestinal problems like diarrhea and constipation

Sigmoid polyps that are found early can as a rule be removed safely and altogether. The first step is to ascertain whether a mass is cancerous or not. Your doctor may possibly take a sample in the course of a colonoscopy and have it analyzed.

There is no way to prevent sigmoid polyps from developing. But you can safely minimize your risk with lifestyle changes and regular screenings.

Be sure to take time to get some exercise and eat better food (chiefly high fiber types) decidedly help. Make sure you get enough calcium since it helps protect you against cancer. Broccoli, kale and canned salmon are good sources of calcium. Vitamin D also appears to diminish your risk.

If you smoke, stop. If you consume excessive alcohol, cut back.

A sigmoid polyp doesn't need to scare you. The most important thing is to find out whether you have sigmoid polyps or not, and to have them taken out if you do.