Colon Cancer 3 years after Clean Colonoscopy

I am 27 year old, 4 years ago I went for a colonoscopy due to bowel problems (cramps, flat stool, blood e.c.t) they found a small adenoma 1mm in size. They said I had a spastic colon and hemmorhoids. I went back the next year and no polyps were found. Now 3 years after that I am going for another colonoscopy. I am terrified because my problems have gotten worse. Is it likely that I could have colon cancer 3 years after a clean colonoscopy? I know its possible but how likely is it? How fast do polyps grow? Is it possible one could grow to the point that it is causing flat stool in 3 years? I am very worried any information would be helpful.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

It's impossible to predict with certainty whether colon cancer is present.  I can say that, in general, polyps potentially turn into cancer in order of years.

So, if there is blood in the stool and changes in bowel habits, the only way to know for sure would be to repeat the colonoscopy and biopsy any suspicious lesions.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.

KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/kevinmd