Polyps in the bowel are caused by abnormal cell growth in the lining of the bowel. Normally, the cells in the bowel lining grow, serve their purpose, and die in a controlled way, but when genes become faulty, cells can grow too quickly and form growths called polyps. These polyps can vary in size and most remain harmless, but some can develop into cancer over time.

Key causes and risk factors for bowel polyps include:

• Genetic mutations or inherited conditions such as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Lynch Syndrome, and Peutz Jeghers Syndrome, which increase the risk of polyp formation.

• Age, with polyps more common in people over 45 or 50 years old.

• Family history of polyps or colorectal cancer, which raises the likelihood of developing polyps.

• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis that cause chronic inflammation of the bowel lining.

• Lifestyle factors such as smoking, heavy alcohol use, obesity, and lack of exercise increase risk.

• Diets high in saturated fats, red meat, and processed meats also contribute to polyp development.

• Diabetes is associated with a higher risk of polyps, possibly linked to medication or metabolic effects.

In summary, bowel polyps arise from genetic changes that cause the bowel lining cells to multiply abnormally, influenced by a combination of inherited factors, age, lifestyle, diet, and certain health conditions.