Colorectal Cancer - A Top Killer Cancer In Singapore
Colorectal cancer is a top killer cancer in Singapore. Learn more about this disease with our collection of informative articles and resources.
Colorectal Cancer Screening – Do Not Wait Until It Is Too Late!
Early detection is a crucial factor for colorectal cancer treatment. Schedule your comprehensive screening package today, including a colonoscopy, to ensure peace of mind and protect your health. Do not wait for symptoms to appear – by then, the cancer may already be advanced.
Book your comprehensive screening now and stay one step ahead of colorectal cancer:
Need more options? Explore additional health screening packages on this page.
See A Doctor
If you are looking for a doctor in Singapore for colorectal cancer screening or treatment, here are some to consider:
GASTROENTEROLOGIST
Dr Lim Lee Guan | Partner Doctor – Specialist Care Group
Dr Chuah Sai Wei – Gleneagles Hospital
Dr Constantinos Anastassiades – National University Hospital
SURGEON
Dr Lee Kuok Chung | Partner Doctor – Crest Surgical Practice
A/Prof Chong Choon Seng | Partner Doctor – Ark Surgical Practice
Assoc Prof Emile John Tan Kwong Wei – Singapore General Hospital
MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST
Dr Choo Su Pin – Curie Oncology
Dr Angela Pang – OncoCare Cancer Centre
Clin Assoc Prof Tham Chee Kian – National Cancer Centre Singapore
Dr Koo Si-Lin – National Cancer Centre Singapore
RADIATION ONCOLOGIST
Dr Looi Wen Shen – Proton Therapy SG
Dr Lee Kuo Ann – Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
Financials
MediSave can be claimed for colonoscopy screening at all public healthcare institutions and approved private hospitals and medical institutions, for Singaporeans aged 50 years old and above and provided it is a day-surgery procedure. Colonoscopies which are deemed “medically necessary” may be claimable under Integrated Shield Plans and private insurance plans (depending on coverage of each specific plan). Colonoscopies purely for screening purposes (i.e. no signs and symptoms of relevant medical conditions) are generally not insurance claimable.
Check with CPF on the latest MediSave policies.
Financial Planning For Cost Of Medical Treatment In Singapore
The cost of medical treatment in Singapore is a significant concern for many individuals and families. Proper financial planning is.
MediSave And Medishield Life Coverage For Overseas Singaporeans
Know more about MediSave, MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plans coverage for overseas medical expenses.
Resources On Food And Drugs
FAQs
What are the common symptoms of colorectal cancer?
Common symptoms of colorectal cancer may include changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool), persistent abdominal discomfort (cramps, gas, or pain), rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, weakness or fatigue, and a feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely. However, early stages may not cause any symptoms.
Who is at risk for developing colorectal cancer?
Risk factors for colorectal cancer include being over the age of 50, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inherited genetic syndromes (such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis), inflammatory bowel diseases (like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis), a diet high in red or processed meats, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use.
How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?
Colorectal cancer is diagnosed through several methods, including a colonoscopy, during which a flexible tube with a camera is used to examine the entire colon and rectum and take biopsies of any suspicious areas. Other diagnostic tests may include flexible sigmoidoscopy, CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy), fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), fecal immunochemical tests (FIT), and stool DNA tests.
What treatment options are available for colorectal cancer?
Treatment options for colorectal cancer depend on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include surgery to remove the cancer (ranging from local excision to partial or total colectomy), chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. A combination of these treatments may be used, and the specific plan is tailored to each patient’s needs.
Any tips for selecting a doctor for colorectal cancer treatment?
If you suspect colorectal cancer or have been diagnosed with it, the choice of a doctor to lead your cancer team will be a crucial decision. You may find these guides useful: (i) Finding The Best Doctor For Your Needs, (ii) Understanding The Different Types Of Oncologists
Additional Resources
- Colorectal Cancer | Alpha Digestive & Liver Center. Available from: https://alphagastro.sg/conditions/colorectal-cancer-singapore/
- Colorectal Polyps | Alpha Digestive & Liver Centre. Available from: https://alphagastro.sg/conditions/colorectal-polyps/
- Colonoscopy | Alpha Digestive & Liver Center. Available from: https://alphagastro.sg/services/colonoscopy-singapore/
- Colorectal Cancer – Singapore | HealthHub. Available from: https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/diseases-and-conditions/colorectalcancer
- Colorectal Cancer – NCIS | National University Cancer Institute, Singapore. Available from: https://www.ncis.com.sg/Cancer-Information/About-Cancer/Pages/Colorectal-Cancer.aspx
- Colorectal Cancer – Symptoms, Treatments. SingHealth. Available from: https://www.singhealth.com.sg/patient-care/conditions-treatments/colorectal-colon-cancer
- Colorectal Cancer – Singapore | NUH. Available from: https://www.nuh.com.sg/Health-Information/Diseases-Conditions/Pages/Colorectal-Cancer.aspx
- Colorectal Cancer | Singapore Cancer Society. Available from: https://www.singaporecancersociety.org.sg/learn-about-cancer/types-of-cancer/colorectal-cancer.html
- Screening for Colorectal Cancer – Singapore | HealthHub. Available from: https://www.healthhub.sg/live-healthy/screening_colorectal_cancer_nuhs
- Colorectal cancer | World Health Organization. Available from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/colorectal-cancer#:~:text=Colorectal%20cancer%20is%20a%20type,colorectal%20cancer%20increases%20with%20age.
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