Colon cancer screening allows for timely treatment and significantly increases survival rates for those with colon cancer. Read more.
Screening helps detect precancerous polyps or early-stage cancers, often before symptoms appear. But who should consider it, what are the different screening options, and how often is it needed?
This guide provides a comprehensive look at the signs that may suggest a need for colon cancer screening. It also provides important guidelines on who should be screened, and the benefits of early detection.
Many cases of colon cancer don’t produce symptoms until advanced stages. However, there are certain warning signs that may indicate the need for a prompt screening. Below are major signs that suggest a need for colon cancer screening:
Deciding to go for a colon cancer screening depends largely on risk factors like age, family history, and lifestyle. In Singapore, healthcare guidelines recommend screening for colon cancer based on the following criteria:
(I) Family History of Colon Cancer: A first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) with colon cancer or polyps, especially if diagnosed before age 60.
(II) Genetic Conditions: Certain hereditary conditions, like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, increase colon cancer risk. Genetic counseling and earlier screening are often recommended.
(III) Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis increase colon cancer risk due to chronic inflammation.
(IV) Lifestyle Risks: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high-fat diets, and physical inactivity are all linked to an elevated risk of colon cancer.
There are several effective options for colon cancer screening in Singapore. Each screening method comes with unique approach to detecting colon cancer. Here are the main types of screenings commonly offered in Singapore:
The FOBT is a non-invasive test that checks for hidden blood in the stool. This blood can often indicate the presence of polyps or cancer.
There are two main types: the guaiac-based FOBT (gFOBT) and the fecal immunochemical test (FIT). The FIT is more accurate and widely used due to its higher sensitivity in detecting blood from the lower gastrointestinal tract. The test is easy to perform at home and is recommended annually for average-risk individuals.
A colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for detecting colon cancer, as it allows doctors to view the entire colon and rectum. During the procedure, a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum.
This tube with the camera (colonoscope) allows the doctor to look for polyps or abnormalities. If polyps are found, they can often be removed immediately to reduce cancer risk. Colonoscopies are usually recommended every 10 years for average-risk individuals, or more frequently for those at high risk.
This procedure is similar to a colonoscopy. However, it examines only the lower part of the colon.
A sigmoidoscope, a shorter flexible tube, is used to inspect the rectum and sigmoid colon for polyps and abnormal growths. While less comprehensive than a colonoscopy, it can still identify many potential issues.
It comes with the benefit of a shorter procedure time and quicker recovery. Sigmoidoscopies are typically recommended every five years for people at average risk.
CT colonography uses a CT scan to create images of the colon and rectum. So, it provides a non-invasive alternative to traditional colonoscopy.
This test is often recommended for people who cannot undergo a traditional colonoscopy due to health conditions or who prefer a less invasive option. It is usually recommended every five years. Any abnormal findings will require a follow-up colonoscopy.
It is important for colon cancer to be detected early because it allows for improved treatment success. When colon cancer is detected in its earliest stages, it is often much more treatable, with a higher chance of a full recovery.
For those with a family history of colon cancer, regular screening offers reassurance. In particular, it allows people to take proactive control of their health.
Colon cancer screening can help safeguard your health, especially if you’re over 45 or at higher risk. Seek to understand your screening options and the guidelines to be best placed to make an informed decision.
If you’re experiencing symptoms or fall into a high-risk category, consider scheduling a colon cancer screening soon. Taking action today could seem minimal but it could protect your health tomorrow. Reach out to a colorectal care specialist below to learn about the best screening option for you.
Colorectal Care Specialists - Dr Ronnie Mathew | Gallstones Removal | Lipoma Removal Singapore
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-15 Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
+6597252381