By The Associated Press
The polyp that was removed from President Joe Biden during his colonoscopy last week was benign, slow-growing but potentially precancerous, his doctor said.
The president's medical team pointed out that
it is not necessary to follow any treatment
and recommended a routine follow-up, which includes performing another colonoscopy within 7 or 19 years.
President Joe Biden speaks to reporters at the White House after undergoing a medical examination at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center on November 19, 2021. Alex Brandon / AP
The tissue removed, called a tubular adenoma, is similar to the one removed in 2008, Dr. Kevin C. O'Connor explained in a report released Wednesday by the White House.
[Biden's popularity drops to 42% just one year before the midterm elections]
The Mayo Clinic defines a colon polyp as a small group of cells that forms in the lining of the colon.
Most of these polyps are not dangerous, but some end up developing colon cancer over time
.
"The best prevention of colon cancer is
early detection
and removal of polyps," advises the medical center.
Although it was only for 85 minutes, Kamala Harris became the first female president of the United States.
Nov. 20, 202102: 01
Biden, who turned 79 last week and is the nation's oldest president, remains "healthy," "energetic," and
fit for duty
, O'Connor stressed.
The president nevertheless shows some signs of aging, the doctor pointed out.