Demographic and lifestyle risk factors for small adenomatous colorectal polyps

Introduction: Adenomatous colorectal polyps are well-recognized precursors of colorectal cancer.
Identification of risk factors associated with their development remains essential for effective prevention
and early detection strategies.
Aim: To assess demographic and lifestyle-related risk factors associated with small adenomatous
colorectal polyps, including sex, age, smoking, and positive family history of colorectal cancer.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 205 patients with a total of 346
histologically confirmed adenomatous colorectal polyps sized 4–10 mm. All polypectomies were
performed at a single center by one experienced endoscopist over a two-year period. Data on sex, age,
smoking status, and family history of colorectal cancer were analyzed.
Results: Adenomas were more frequently detected in male patients (54.1%) than in females
(45.9%). The mean age was 53.8 years for males and 56.9 years for females. Smoking was reported in
38.5% of patients and was significantly associated with adenoma presence (OR=1.58; 95% CI: 1.07–2.34;
p<0.05). A positive family history of colorectal cancer was present in 19.5% of patients and showed a
statistically significant association with adenoma detection (p<0.05).
Conclusion: Male sex, smoking, and family history of colorectal cancer are important risk factors
for small adenomatous colorectal polyps. These findings support current prevention and screening concepts.
Keywords: colorectal polyps, adenomas, colorectal cancer, risk factors.