I'm a male 23 years old. I did a sigmoidoscopy today and the doctor said that I have internal hemorrhoids and a little polyp. Should I get worried, because I lost my aunt 6 months ago from Coracteral Cancer?
Malafi, I'm so sorry for your loss!
You're so smart to start having colonoscopies now. Polyps aren't a problem if you go for regular colonoscopies and follow your doctor's orders. If you're clear for a few years, you may not need them annually, but don't miss any.
My mother's mother died from colorectal cancer and my dad was diagnosed last year, so I have a very strong history and I'm going for my first colonoscopy on Monday (I'm 46). My GI doctor is also doing an endoscopy to test for Coeliac disease and just have a better look at what's going on with my IBS.
Did your doctor biopsy the polyp? I think you're fine, but you need to regularly check for and remove polyps - CRC is highly preventable! By the way, 2/3 of ALL cancers are lifestyle-related, meaning if you cut out all tobacco, watch your sun exposure, eat well and exercize, you remove 2/3 of all of your cancer risks. (Moderate or no alcohol is probably on there, too)
Good luck!!
at 23 i would not get overly concerned about colon cancer. most polyps are benign. unless you have a history of familiar polyp disease then do not worry. and hemorroids have nothing to do with cancer.
Thank you very much for your answer, courage and support Aveline! I'm so sorry for your loss too
Actually I went for a sigmoidoscopy because I found blood in the stool and in the toilet paper. The doctor hasn't biopsy the polyp yet, I'l have to remove it first.
Actually I don't know what is the reason that I have hemorrhoids and polyp because I never drink alcohol, coffee or smoke. And also I go to the gym and have played sports since I was 6 years old.
Thank you very much for your advices! Good look with your colonoscopy! And I wish all the bests to your dad.
May God be with you!
Thank you for your answer and support Leeniepie All the bests!
You are ahead of your time, malafi! If you keep doing what you're doing now, you'll have a long, healthy life ahead!! Hemorrhoids are no fun, but they're not much more than inflammation and irritation. At this stage, polyps are generally just that.
And thank you so much for your kind words! My father underwent chemotherapy and radiation last year for what was a stage 2 rectal tumor (cancer) and refused surgery. There is some scar tissue at the site, but his tumor is completely gone! He missed a colonoscopy (insurance reasons, I think?) and he won't be missing any more, I'm sure! None of us will. Early detection saves lives! That plus your healthy living will take you very far!
May God be with you, too!