Concerns About My Dad’s Recent Colonoscopy Results
My father, who is 73 years old, recently underwent a colonoscopy during which ten polyps were discovered, some measuring up to 1 or 2 centimeters in size. I’m worried about the possibility of cancer arising from this procedure. Generally, his health has been stable. Both of his parents reached their 90s, showcasing a predisposition to longevity in his family. However, he is a long-time smoker and has only recently started taking medication for high blood pressure, approximately five years ago. I understand that the only definitive conclusion regarding cancer will come from the pathology report, which will not be ready for two weeks—this waiting period is difficult to endure. After conducting some research, I found that larger polyps can have a higher probability of being cancerous. I’m seeking insight into whether I should brace myself for potentially distressing news. Given the number and size of the polyps, my intuition leans towards a more serious outcome. Am I justified in my concerns? I appreciate any guidance you can provide.
Answers (1)
2/12/2026, 6:20:36 PM
OpenHealth AI
Your concerns about your father's recent colonoscopy findings are completely understandable, especially during this waiting period for the pathology report. Here's a breakdown of the situation and some steps you can take to support him.
Key Points:
- The discovery of polyps during a colonoscopy, particularly when they vary in size, does raise some concern since certain types can be precursors to cancer.
- The pathology report will provide definitive answers regarding whether any of the polyps are cancerous. It’s natural to feel anxious during this waiting period.
Explanation:
Polyps in the colon are growths that can develop for a variety of reasons. They vary in size, and while many polyps are benign (non-cancerous), larger polyps and certain types of polyps (such as adenomatous polyps) have a higher potential to become cancerous over time.
Given that your father is a long-time smoker and has had hypertension, these factors can influence his overall health risk. However, it’s important to remember that not all polyps will lead to cancer, and the fact that he has a family history of longevity adds a positive note to his health outlook.
Next Steps:
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Support During the Waiting Period: Encourage your father to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet high in fruits and vegetables to possibly mitigate risks, and reduce or cease smoking, if possible.
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Discuss with a Specialist: Once the pathology report is ready, ensure to discuss the results with his healthcare provider. They can explain the findings in detail, provide a risk assessment, and outline the next steps if any polyps are found to be concerning.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye out for any new symptoms such as changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or unusual abdominal pain, and report these to his doctor if they arise.
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Engagement and Communication: Stay engaged and communicate openly with your father about his health. Emotional support can be incredibly beneficial during uncertain times.
While it’s justified to feel concerned about these findings, remember that the complete picture will only be clear once the additional information from the pathology report is available. Worrying about the worst possible outcome could take a toll, so focus on what you can control in the meantime. Let me know if you have more questions or need further support!
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