In a blog article, Mount Elizabeth Hospital details the cancer journey of a colorectal cancer patient (Mr Sebastian Ang) – from diagnosis to treatment. We can infer from Mr Ang’s journey a few key learnings that we should take note of, especially with regards to the importance of colonoscopy in detecting colorectal cancer, and also the importance of seeking a second opinion. We summarise the key points of note below. Read the full story here.
Recap – Colorectal Cancer In Singapore
Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. Usually, it develops over years. It begins as polyps inside the colon or rectum, and are harmless in the beginning. They can however, turn cancerous over time. Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer causing deaths in Singapore (Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021).
Surgery to remove part of the colon or rectum is a common treatment for colorectal cancer. This may result in the patient having to wear a stoma bag for faeces collection.
Colorectal Cancer – Why A Colonoscopy Can Change Your Life
Blood in Mr Ang’s stools was noticed by his family. He went for a colonoscopy and discovered that he had rectum cancer:
- Colorectal cancer often does not present any symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, one of them may be blood in the tools.
- Colonoscopy is one of the most reliable methods to screen for and to detect colorectal cancer. It involves a long, flexible tube with a camera on one end to examine the interior of the colon and rectum. Polyps discovered during a colonoscopy may be removed for biopsy or to prevent their further development into cancer.
- The silver lining for Mr Ang was that his condition was caught early at the T1 stage. Cancer treatment at the earlier stages can give better patient outcomes compared to treatment at more advanced stages.
Why Is It Important To Get A Second Opinion For Cancer Treatment
The initial assessment for Mr Ang’s cancer was that a major operation would be needed to treat his cancer. This might result in the removal of a part of the colon, and he would have to live with wearing a stoma bag on the outside of his abdomen for faeces collection for the rest of his life. However:
- Mr Ang sought a second expert opinion on his condition.
- He approach Dr Chong Choon Seng, who is a colorectal and general surgeon at Mount Elizabeth Hospitals. Dr Chong is experienced in performing minimally invasive and colorectal surgery.
- Dr Chong assessed from Mr Ang’s test results that the stage of cancer was early at Stage T1. He was able to recommend a minimally invasive surgery for the cancer that would not impact Mr Ang’s quality of life.
- Mr Ang underwent minimally invasive surgery with Dr Chong, and he has been able to resume a normal life without the need for a stoma bag.
It is often useful to seek a second opinion for conditions as complicated as cancer as different doctors with different expertise may have differing assessments and treatment plans. Getting a second opinion is common and good doctors would not begrudge their patients doing so.
Learn More About Colorectal Cancer, Colonoscopy, And Doctors For Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Explore colorectal cancer on this page – learn about the cancer, colorectal cancer screening methods (including colonoscopy), and see our listing of doctors you can consider for colorectal cancer treatment.
Protect against cancer, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases with regular health screening. Compare and shop for health screenings from Singapore and regional healthcare providers at a single convenient platform - shop.health365.sg
This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.
