5 Facts about Colorectal Cancer
Dr Bertrand Ang from National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) shares his insights on facts about Colorectal Cancer
- Colorectal cancer is now the most common cancer in Singapore affecting both males and females. There were about 9,324 cases diagnosed from 2010-2014 locally.
- Regular screening for colorectal cancer can detect an early stage of disease, where there may not be symptoms.
- Screening is recommended from the age 50 for people with no symptoms.
- In Singapore, there are two recommended screening tests to detect colorectal cancer, namely, the 2-day Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) and the screening colonoscopy. Screening using FIT should be done once a year.
- Alternatively, screening using colonoscopy can also detect colorectal cancer and this test should be carried out once every 10 years. For individuals at increased or high risk, screening by colonoscopy is indicated as below.4,5 It is advised that you consult your family doctor who can advise you on the type of screening test to take.
About National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS)
The National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) is a national specialist centre under the National University Health System (NUHS). It is the only public cancer centre in Singapore treating both paediatric and adult cancers in one facility.
Email: ncis@nuhs.edu.sg
Website: www.ncis.com.sg
Location: 1 Kent Ridge Road Singapore 119082
Phone: (65) 6773 7888
Facebook: www.facebook.com/NationalUniversityCancerInstituteSingapore