Bowel (Colorectal) Cancer Screening
In Singapore, colonoscopy screening is an important procedure for early detection of colorectal cancer. It can identify and remove small polyps before they develop into cancer—often before patients experience any symptoms.
Book a Screening
Why Get Screened?
Early Detection
Find cancer at treatable stages
Prevention
Remove polyps before they turn cancerous
Peace of Mind
68% reduction in cancer mortality
Are You at Risk?
Screening is recommended at age 45, or earlier if you have risk factors.
Average Risk Factors
- Age 45+ years
- Sedentary lifestyle or obesity
- Smoking or heavy alcohol use
High Risk – Consider Earlier Screening
- Family history of colorectal cancer (parent, sibling, or child)
- Personal history of polyps or inflammatory bowel disease
- Hereditary syndromes (Lynch syndrome, FAP)
Recommendation: Screen from age 40 or 10 years before earliest family diagnosis
Colonoscopy Screening Procedure and What To Expect
A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to examine the inside of the large bowel using a thin flexible camera. It is commonly done for bowel cancer screening, change in bowel habit, bleeding, anaemia, abdominal symptoms, or follow-up of previous polyps.
Common patient experiences
For many patients, the bowel preparation is the most inconvenient part of the process. The colonoscopy itself is usually well tolerated because sedation is given to keep you comfortable.
After the procedure, you may feel drowsy for a few hours and experience temporary bloating or wind. Most people are able to eat and drink again once they are fully awake, and many feel reassured once the examination is complete and the findings have been explained.
Seek urgent medical advice if you develop severe or worsening abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, fever, heavy rectal bleeding, dizziness, or black stools after the procedure.
Most patients find that the colonoscopy itself is easier than they expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about colorectal cancer screening.
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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.