Colon & rectal cancer is a top silent killer disease in Singapore. Often, there are no symptoms in the early stages. By the time symptoms show, the cancer may already be in the advanced stages and the chances of survival are greatly reduced. In Singapore, people above the age of 50 is at greater risk, especially Chinese males. Early detection, treatment and prevention is key.
Colorectal cancer screening is aimed at early detection before symptoms show. Screening methods are employed to identify precancerous growths (polyps) or cancer at its earliest stages, often when it is more treatable or curable.
When symptoms do appear, they may include:
Some of the common colorectal cancer screening methods include Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) and colonoscopy, the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening.
FIT is considered a “preliminary” screening for colorectal cancer. It can detect the presence of small amounts of blood in faeces and can be nearly 80% accurate in detecting colorectal cancer. If the results are positive, the patient should follow up with further investigations to confirm the cause of the results. It is a simple, non-invasive test to undertake, and should be done annually.
Colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer is (to date) the best screening method as it enables the doctor to detect and remove the polyp before it becomes cancer.
Colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for examining the inside of the colon. During colonoscopy, a colonoscope is inserted into the patient through the rectum. The colonoscope is a long, soft and flexible tube about 1 cm in width, with a small video camera located at the end. With this, the doctor can see the inside of the colon and diagnose any abnormality. The procedure may take about 20 – 30 minutes.
Polyps and other types of abnormal tissues that are discovered during a colonoscopy may be removed using the colonoscope during the procedure.
The following table is based on MOH guidelines for colorectal cancer screening using colonoscopy in Singapore:
Colonoscopy May Be Combined With Gastroscopy
In some cases, both gastroscopy and colonoscopy may be ordered by a medical professional to check the health of the entire gastrointestinal track. It is often known as a “combined endoscopy” or “upper and lower endoscopy.”
Dr Lee Kuok Chung is a Colorectal Surgeon at Crest Surgical Practice in Singapore (Mt Elizabeth & Gleneagles Hospitals). He specialises in Oncological Colorectal Surgery and benign perianal conditions.
Dr Chong Choon Seng is a Colorectal Surgeon in Singapore. He has expertise in minimally invasive surgery, and is trained in robotic & transanal platforms.
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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.
