Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in your colon or rectum, which are parts of your digestive system. This inflammatory bowel disease is considered the third most common cancer, as it accounts for 10% of all cancer cases. World Health Organization reported that in 2020 alone, there were 1.9 million new cases of colon cancer, which is alarming.
While this might sound like a big scary term, it’s one of the cancers one can often catch early or prevent if you screen for it. So, starting with the big question: how do you screen for colorectal cancer? There are a few different ways, and each one has its own steps and benefits. Some are super simple, while others take a bit more effort.
This article will cover the main methods, explain what happens during each, and talk about what you might feel before, during, and after. Ready?
What Are the Most Common Screening Methods
First up, let’s talk about the different tools doctors use to spot colorectal cancer. These colorectal cancer screening tests often look for warning signs of cancer, like growths called precancerous polyps. While they have differing approaches, they all aim to keep you safe.
Here’s a breakdown:
Colonoscopy
If you’ve heard of one common screening test, it’s probably this one. It’s one of the most comprehensive tests because it checks your entire colon and rectum. How does it work?
A doctor uses a long, flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end to peek inside. It’s the best way to get a clear picture of what’s going on.
Before the test, you’ll need to clean out your bowels. You’ll be asked to drink a special liquid the day before. It’s usually something like a salty, clear mix that doesn’t taste great but does the job. You might also be asked to skip solid food for a day. While it does not sound fun, it’s worth it to make sure the doctor can see everything clearly.
During the colonoscopy, you’ll be given medicine to relax or sleep, so you won’t feel much. The whole thing takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
If the doctor spots any polyps, they can remove them right then and there with a tiny tool on the tube. Afterwards, you might feel a bit bloated or gassy as the air they use to open up your colon works its way out.
Most people only need this test every 10 years if everything looks normal, starting around age 45 or 50. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, your doctor might suggest starting earlier.
So why do people prefer this option? It’s thorough and can stop cancer before it starts. The downside to this is the preparation time. It can feel like a chore, and you’ll need someone to drive you home because of the sedation. But it’s a small price to pay for peace of mind.
If you’re living in Singapore and are planning to start your colorectal screening journey with colonoscopy, you can look for Singapore colorectal cancer screening near you. Your nearest provider may also offer other screening methods, which will be discussed later.
Stool-Based Tests
If you need ready for a camera, there’s an easier option called the stool test. This one checks for tiny amounts of blood in your stool sample that you can’t see with your eyes. Blood can sometimes mean polyps or cancer, so it’s a helpful clue.
The process is simple: you get a kit in the mail or from your doctor, and you collect a small sample of your stool at home. It’s quick and private. All you have to do is follow the instructions, send it back to the lab, and you’re done with your part.
There’s no special prep, no day off work, nothing tedious. The lab checks it, and if they find blood, your doctor will likely suggest a colonoscopy to dig deeper. Most people do this test every year or two.
What’s great about the stool test is that it’s not invasive. However, they’re not as detailed as a colonoscopy, so they’re more likely an early warning system. If you’re nervous about bigger tests, this is a gentle way to start.
CT Colonography
The next screening is something called a CT colonography or a ‘virtual colonoscopy.’ This one uses a CT scan involving high-tech X-ray to create a 3D picture of your colon.
It’s less hands-on than a regular colonoscopy, which some people prefer. You’ll still need to clean out your bowels beforehand with a drink or pills, just like with a colonoscopy.
During the test, a small tube pumps air into your colon to open it up for the scan. No sedation is needed, and it’s over in about 15 minutes. If the pictures show anything unusual, though, you’ll need a regular colonoscopy to check it out. People usually do this every 5 years.
This test is a middle ground. It’s not as invasive as a colonoscopy, but it’s more high-tech than a stool test. The catch is that you’ll be exposed to a tiny amount of radiation from the CT scan. Plus, it has the same preparation as a proper colonoscopy.
Still, it’s a solid choice if you want something quick and modern.
Sigmoidoscopy
Finally, there’s the sigmoidoscopy. It’s a mini-colonoscopy that only looks at the lower part of your colon. The doctor uses a shorter tube with a camera, and it’s usually done without sedation. While it’s like a colonoscopy, the prep is lighter. All you need is an enema or laxative to clear the lower area.
The test takes 10 to 20 minutes, and you might feel some pressure, but it’s not a big deal for most people. If the doctors find something, you’ll need a full colonoscopy later. This one’s typically done every 5 years.
Many pick this test because it’s faster and easier to prepare for. But since it doesn’t check your whole colon, it’s not as complete as the full version. It’s a good option if you’re on low or average risk and want something simple.
When Should You Start Screening
Now that you know the do ‘how’, let’s discuss the ‘when.’ For most people with no special risk, like no family history, screening starts at age 45 or 50. Medical experts used to say 50, but they’ve bumped it down to 45 because younger people are getting this cancer more often now.
For those with a family history, you might need to start colorectal screening earlier. Usually, 10 years before a said family member was diagnosed. For example, if your dad got it at 50, you’d start screening at age 40.
What’s Your Next Move
If you’re still unsure which test is for you, talk to your doctor. They’ll explain what fits best, whether it’s the full colonoscopy experience or the quick stool test. The important thing is to do something and stick with it. It’s your health, and you’ve got this.