Colorectal cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers in Singapore and occurs among both men and women. Happily, the cancer is extremely preventable through screening in good time. Screening using colonoscopy in Singapore is an excellent method of finding and removing precancerous polyps before they become cancerous. But who exactly should be doing this significant screening test? This article gives a clear guide on who should have colonoscopy screening and when to get it done.
Understanding Colonoscopy Screening
Colonoscopy is a procedure where doctors look at the inside lining of your large bowel (colon and rectum) with a thin, flexible tube that has a small camera on the end. This enables them to see polyps, abnormal growths on the lining of your colon or rectum that can become cancerous if not taken out. The advantage of colonoscopy screening Singapore is that doctors can, at the same time, take out these polyps, effectively eradicating cancer in its initial stages.
Age-Based Recommendations
The Ministry of Health Singapore and major medical organizations recommend the following age-based guidelines for colonoscopy screening:
For Average-Risk Individuals:
- Start regular screening at age 50
- Continue screening until age 75
- Between ages 76-85, the decision should be individualized based on overall health
- After age 85, routine screening is generally not recommended
Many colonoscopy screening centers in Singapore follow these guidelines, though some may recommend starting earlier based on recent research showing rising colorectal cancer rates in younger adults.
Risk Factors That May Require Earlier Screening
Certain people should consider colonoscopy screening in Singapore earlier than age 50:
Family History
- Having a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) diagnosed with colorectal cancer or advanced polyps before age 60
- Having two or more first-degree relatives diagnosed at any age
- Positive family history for inherited colorectal cancer syndromes
Personal Health History
- History of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps in the past
- History of inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
- History of pelvic or abdominal radiation in the past for cancer treatment
- Certain inherited conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis
If any of these risk factors are relevant to you, colonoscopy screening may be advised beginning at age 40 or earlier, and perhaps more often than currently recommended.
Symptoms That Warrant Immediate Attention
Regardless of age or risk factors, anyone experiencing these symptoms should consult a doctor promptly about a colonoscopy:
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
- Persistent change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort
- Feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely
- Unexplained anemia (low blood count)
These symptoms don’t necessarily indicate cancer but deserve proper evaluation.
Ethnic Considerations in Singapore
Singapore’s multiethnic population shows some variations in colorectal cancer risk:
- Chinese Singaporeans have slightly higher rates compared to Malay and Indian Singaporeans
- However, rates are increasing across all ethnic groups
This emphasizes the importance of colonoscopy screening in Singapore for all residents, regardless of ethnicity.
Frequency of Colonoscopy Screening
For average-risk individuals with normal results:
- Repeat colonoscopy every 10 years
For individuals with certain findings or risk factors:
- 3-5 years for those with certain types of polyps
- More frequent intervals for those with multiple or advanced polyps
- 1-2 years for those with inflammatory bowel disease
Colonoscopy Screening Options in Singapore
Singapore offers excellent accessibility to colonoscopy screening:
- Public hospitals provide subsidized screening for eligible residents
- Private hospitals and clinics offer shorter waiting times
- The Screen for Life national program provides subsidies for eligible Singaporeans
- Medisave can be used to pay for colonoscopy screening
The Bottom Line
Colonoscopy screening in Singapore saves lives by detecting colorectal cancer at an early stage or keeping it from occurring. If you are over 50, have a risk factor for colorectal cancer, or experience suspicious symptoms, get your healthcare provider to discuss how to arrange this life-saving procedure. The short-term discomfort of the procedure is well worth the reassurance and possibly life-saving advantages that it offers.
