Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide, among men and women combined, yet it can often be prevented through screening. Screening for people at average risk of colorectal cancer should start from age 45 or 50, depending on your condition.
Early Detection Saves Lives.
Colorectal cancer can
be prevented. Colorectal
cancer is preventable since it starts as polyps and take years to become
cancerous, if at all. If it is found early, the 5-year survival rate is 90%.
Colonoscopy is a safe procedure with a low incidence of complications and is
recommended to be done once every 3 to 10 years, starting from the age of 45 or
50, depending on your condition. With recent advancements in colonoscopy, even
polyps that are larger than 2cm in diameter can be removed safely via
colonoscopy. Many lives can be saved by understanding colorectal cancer
risks, increasing screening rates, and making lifestyle changes.
Consult your doctor to assess your suitability
for a colonoscopy screening if you are over 50 or if you experience symptoms like persistent
abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, increasing constipation, unexplained weight
loss, and a sudden change in bowel habit.
For any question or to make an appointment with our
Gastroenterologist, please contact our Appointment Service
Center at 400.819.6622.
Article reviewed by Dr. Akiko Tomonari, Gastroenterologist at ParkwayHealth
Copyright: Health Plus an online health and wellness web resource developed by Parkway Singapore
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