The Importance of Colorectal Cancer Screening | OncoCare Cancer Centre 

Early detection can make all the difference when it comes to cancer. This is especially true for colorectal cancer, one of the most common and preventable types of cancer. At OncoCare Cancer Centre, we emphasize that colorectal cancer screening in Singapore not only detects cancer early, when it is most treatable, but can also prevent the disease from developing in the first place.

The Silent Threat You Should Not Ignore

Colorectal cancer often grows quietly, without obvious warning signs. Many people look and feel perfectly healthy even as polyps — small growths that can become cancerous over time — form in the colon. By the time symptoms like blood in the stool, abdominal pain, or weight loss appear, the disease may already be advanced.

Screening Saves Lives

Detecting polyps early offers the best chance to remove them before they develop into cancer. Early-stage colorectal cancer is often treatable with surgery alone. In contrast, advanced cancer requires more complex treatments and has lower survival rates.

Trusted centres like OncoCare Cancer Centre offer screening services that follow evidence-based guidelines and are tailored to individual risk profiles. Whether you're at average risk or have a family history of cancer, a consultation can help determine the most appropriate screening plan.

Screening Tests

• Colonoscopy: The most accurate colorectal cancer screening test, typically recommended every 10 years for average-risk individuals or more frequently for those at higher risk. It allows for both detection and removal of pre-cancerous polyps, preventing potential progression to cancer. Biopsy samples can also be taken to detect cancerous changes.
• Stool-based Tests (Fecal Occult Blood Tests): These less invasive tests look for traces of blood in the stool and are recommended annually for average-risk individuals. Positive results are followed by a colonoscopy for confirmation and further investigation.
• CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): A specialized non-invasive CT scan is sometimes considered. If abnormalities are found, a colonoscopy will still be needed for confirmation and treatment.

Each test has different strengths, and the right choice depends on your health background and preferences. A medical provider can guide you through the options.

Who Should Get Screened

Colorectal cancer screening is generally recommended for average-risk individuals starting at age 50. Those with higher risk should begin screening earlier and may require more frequent monitoring. Risk factors include a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of colorectal cancer or polyps, ovarian or endometrial cancer, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Overcoming Barriers to Screening

Understandably, some people avoid screening because they feel nervous or unsure about the procedures. Today, screening methods are safer and more comfortable than ever. If you have concerns or would like to explore personalized screening options, consult with the dedicated experts at OncoCare Cancer Centre for comprehensive cancer care and advice tailored to your individual risk factors and health needs.

The Bottom Line 

Early detection leads to simpler treatments and better outcomes. Screening saves lives. Find out how we can assist you with your concerns about cancer and cancer screening by visiting our patient education blog.

For those seeking trusted colorectal cancer screening in Singapore, OncoCare Cancer Centre offers a reliable and patient-focused approach. If you're considering screening or simply want to learn more, consulting a healthcare provider is a good place to start. Book an appointment with OncoCare.

“Expert knowledge means better care for cancer”

Written by:

Dr Tan Hon Lyn
Senior Medical Oncologist at OncoCare Cancer Centre
Clinical Interests: Gastrointestinal Cancers (Colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, liver, gallbladder), Neuroendocrine tumors