Colon cancer is known as a silent killer because it often has no symptoms until it’s too late to treat it successfully. Get colonoscopy screening in Singapore here. tests can detect colon cancer in its early stages, greatly increasing your odds of a full recovery and preventing you from developing any of the common complications that come with advanced colon cancer, such as severe bleeding and death.

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is an exam that uses a long, thin tube called an endoscope to look inside the rectum and the entire length of the large intestine (colon). This test can find polyps or abnormal growths on the lining of the large intestine. Polyps may be cancerous or noncancerous. If they are found and removed during a colonoscopy, there is often no need for more tests or surgery because they were found early enough.

Why is it important to get screened for colon cancer?

The most common warning sign for colon cancer is blood in the stool. If you notice blood on your toilet paper or in the bowl, it’s important to talk to your doctor about getting screened for colorectal cancer. If you’re over 50 and have no family history of colorectal cancer, then screening is recommended every 5 years. If you’re over 50 and have a family history or are between ages 45-50, then screenings are recommended every 3 years.

When should I get screened?

Most people should get screened starting at age 50, but the guidelines can vary based on your family history and other factors. Talk to your doctor about what’s best for you. For example, if you have a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, you may need to start screening earlier. Likewise, if someone in your family has had more than one tumor removed during the same surgical procedure (multiple lesions), screening is recommended before age 40. In general, screening is recommended every five years between ages 50 and 75 years old. If this blog post resonates with you or someone close to you talk to your doctor.

How do I prepare for a colonoscopy?

If you are over 50 and have not yet been screened for colorectal cancer, it is important to see your doctor at least once every 10 years. It’s also wise to get screened if you have symptoms, such as bleeding from the rectum or changes in bowel habits. If you’ve had a polyp removed or an adenomatous polyp found on a screening test, your doctor will also advise screening again at least once every 10 years.