Harvard Health Publishing and 3 experts answer: What causes sessile polyps to develop?

Answered by Dr. Howard E. LeWine

M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA

Polyps are small growths that arise inside a hollow organ. They commonly occur in the lower intestine (colon). Sessile polyps refer to polyps that tend to be flat or dome-shaped. Colon polyps occur more often as we age. Younger people who develop polyps may have a strong family history of polyps and colon cancer, or have a history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease. Observational studies have a shown a link between smoking, heavy alcohol use, or high consumption of red and processed meats and colon polyps. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and fiber and getting regular exercise may reduce the risk of colon polyps and cancer.

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Answered by Dr. Wesley D Palmer

Doctor of Medicine · 23 years of experience · USA

A mutation in the BRAF oncogene is believed to be the cause of most sessile serrated polyps. The best detection for these polyps is a screening colonoscopy, beginning at age 45.

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Answered by Dr. Marcella Abunahman Pereira

Specialization in Clinical Cardiology · 12 years of experience · Brazil

A sessile polyp is a flat mass that arises from the mucosal layer of an organ. Sessile polyps are often precancerous, meaning that cancer can develop in them. Some people are more likely to develop sessile polyps if they are over the age of 50 years, being male, have African American heritage, have a history of inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, do not exercise regularly, have obesity, consume a diet high in red meat, lack fiber in their diet and use tobacco.

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Answered by Dr. Gustavo Campos

Doctor of Medicine · 9 years of experience · Brazil

Polyps, like sessile ones, are caused by cells dividing indefinitely even though it is not needed due to a possible gene mutation. That can even be inherited. Therefore, it can be frequent among family members. There might be several variables that raise the likelihood of acquiring such polyps. Aging, inflammatory bowel illness, and lifestyle choices are among them.

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