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Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer - How to prevent?

Regular screening is the best way to detect colorectal polyps or cancer early. In Singapore, the recommended age of screening for colorectal cancer is 50 years old for individuals with no symptoms. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer are advised to start screening earlier. Speak with your healthcare provider who will be able to do a risk assessment and advise you on screening recommendations.

Routine screening tests include:

Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) (yearly)

Blood in the stool may be an early sign of colorectal cancer. FIT is used to detect the presence of human blood in the stool. If blood is found, additional tests would be performed to evaluate the source of bleeding and the presence of cancer.

Colonoscopy (every 5-10 years)

During this procedure the colon and rectum are examined using a special flexible camera inserted through the anus. It allows the removal of small polyps and biopsy of any abnormal areas.

In addition to regular screening, a healthy lifestyle may help to prevent colorectal cancer and includes:

Eating a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and whole grains
Limiting the consumption of red meat and processed meats
Quitting or not starting smoking
Limiting alcohol consumption
Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight

Colorectal Surgery,

Colorectal Surgery,

Medical Oncology,

Oncologic Imaging,

Palliative Medicine,

Radiation Oncology,

Surgical Oncology,

Crohn's Disease,

Ulcerative Colitis,

Article contributed by National Cancer Centre Singapore;Singapore General Hospital;Changi General Hospital;Sengkang General Hospital;KK Women's and Children's Hospital

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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