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What does bowel cancer have to do with me?
When one enters their 50s, the chance of having bowel cancer generally doubles. So does that mean that younger people aren’t at risk? According to medical literature, children and young people have a very low chance of suffering from bowel cancer, but there are exceptions. If you have a strong family history of the disease or have suffered from chronic enteritis, then you need to do regular checks earlier than others.
| Description | Pros and Cons | Frequency | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fecal occult blood test | A small portion of stool sample is collected with a sampling probe; if results are positive, a colonoscopy is required | Pros: convenient and inexpensive Cons: only a preliminary examination tool |
Every 1-2 years |
| Sigmoidoscopy | Used to examine the sigmoid and rectum to see if there are any polyps or cancerous growths(where 70-80% of cancers are located) | Pros: Of short duration; check-up can be done at a clinic without taking laxatives Cons: Can only be used to examine part of the colon |
Every 5 years |
| Colonoscopy | Patients need to eat a low residue diet and undergo an enema prior to the exam The whole large intestine is examined through the anus for polyps and cancer. Doctors administer relaxants or anesthetics to reduce patients’ discomfort |
Pros: Very accurate Polyps can be immediately removed for biopsy Cons: There is about one thousandth of a chance for complications such as bleeding or intestinal tearing, but the chance is extremely low |
Adenoma patients once every 3-5 years If results are normal, then once every 10 years |
| Capsule endoscopy | A tiny, capsule-like camera is swallowed and continually takes photos as it moves through the digestive track. Doctors can then diagnosis polyps or cancer. |
Pros: Completed in a few hours without hospitalisation suitable for people who resist traditional colonoscopy Cons: Expensive and not commonly available If polyps are discovered, a colonoscopy will still be required |
Once every 5 years |
Now that you know about the different tests, let's learn more about the treatment of polyps from Professor Martin Wong of the CUHK Jockey Club Bowel Cancer Education Centre.
*If you have any questions or need any advice on the content of these tips, please talk to your doctor or other qualified professional.
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