While the exact cause of polyps is unknown, factors such as genetics, being over 50 years old, obesity, smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and stress may contribute to their formation.

Risk factors for polyp development, which can occur in people of all ages and genders, include:

* Overweight and obesity
* Age 50 and older
* Smoking
* Family history of polyps
* Sedentary lifestyle
* Inflammatory bowel disease, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
* Gardner syndrome, an inherited disorder affecting the intestines
* Stress
* Uncontrolled type 2 diabetes