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Relationship between tobacco smoking and colorectal polyps
Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Smoking is linked to colorectal polyps in men and women. Longer smoking history correlates with adenomas and hyperplastic polyps, suggesting smoking initiates colon and rectal cancer development.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Colorectal polyps are precursors to colorectal cancer.
- Smoking is a known risk factor for various cancers, but its specific role in colorectal polyp development requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between smoking habits and the presence of colorectal polyps (adenomas and hyperplastic polyps) in a population sample.
- To explore the relationship between smoking duration, intensity, and polyp characteristics (size, multiplicity, dysplasia).
Main Methods:
- Prospective endoscopic screening of 400 individuals (200 men, 200 women) aged 50-59.
- Data collection on smoking history (years of smoking, percentage of life smoking, daily cigarette consumption).
- Endoscopic examination to identify and characterize colorectal polyps.
Main Results:
- Both the number of years smoking and the percentage of life with smoking were associated with the presence of adenomas and hyperplastic polyps in both sexes.
- No significant association was found between smoking factors and polyp degree of dysplasia, size, or multiplicity.
- A non-significant trend suggested fewer new polyps in male ex-smokers compared to current smokers over a two-year follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Evidence supports an association between smoking and colorectal neoplasia.
- Smoking may play an initiating role in the carcinogenesis of the colon and rectum.