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COLORECTAL CANCER SCREENING IN SINGAPORE

A colorectal screening test is used to detect precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum, which can potentially turn into colorectal cancer over time if left untreated. It can also identify early-stage cancer before symptoms develop, increasing the chances of a successful treatment.

Colorectal cancer screening is best done via a colonoscopy, although other methods are also available.

What are the Different Types of Colorectal Cancer Screening?

The three main ways to examine the colon are: colonoscopy, barium enema and computer tomography (CT) colonography (aka virtual colonoscopy). All three methods require the patient to clear their bowels beforehand so that the doctor can obtain a clear view of the entire length of the colon.

The most accurate, common and recommended form of colon cancer screening is a colonoscopy, as it not only allows for clear visualization of the colon, it also allows the doctor to obtain tissue samples for biopsies and remove abnormal growths on the spot.

1. Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is regarded as the ideal standard for colorectal cancer screening. A small, flexible tube containing a light and camera is inserted through the anus, and advanced all the way through the colon. This gives the doctor high quality and real-time images of the inside of the colon.

Should any abnormal growths be found, they can be removed on the spot or taken for a biopsy, which will determine with certainty if they are cancerous or not.

This procedure is usually performed under sedation, so it is painless. After the procedure, you may only feel minor discomfort such as bloating. A rare complication is perforation of the colon wall, but it is very unlikely in the hands of an experienced colorectal cancer surgeon.

Learn more about this diagnostic technology on Dr Dr Ho Kok Sun's dedicated website: Colonoscopy Clinic Singapore.

2. Barium Enema

The barium enema method involves the insertion of a tube into the anus, through which a bag of white liquid (barium) will be poured in. The patient will then be rotated so that the barium can flow through the entire length of the colon. After this is done, the barium will be drained back out. Air will then be pumped in through the tube so as to inflate the colon (providing a clearer view), and X-ray images will be taken with the patient in different positions.

3. CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)

Here, a tube will be inserted through the anus and 1 to 1.5 litres of air will be pumped in to inflate the colon. The patient will then lie on his back in the CT scanner, be given an intravenous injection and the scan will be performed. The patient will then lie on his stomach and the same process is repeated. The virtual image of the colon will then be generated.

FAQ on Colorectal Cancer Screening
  • What is the impact of age on colorectal cancer?
    The risk of colorectal cancer increases as people age. While younger adults can get it, it is most commonly found in adults aged 50 and above.
  • When should I get screened for colorectal cancer?
    For people aged 50 and above, the recommended schedule is generally once every 10 years, provided there was a negative result.

    Those with additional risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer or a personal history of polyps might need to be screened earlier and more frequently.
  • Is colorectal cancer hereditary?
    Colorectal cancer can have a genetic link and those with a family history of colorectal cancer are considered to be at higher risk. That said, however, most colorectal cancers are found in people who do not have a family history of the disease.
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