Colonoscopy: What It Is? When To Start, And How Often You Need It?
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Given the fact that colon cancer or colorectal cancer is the second largest reason of death caused by can in the world, it is a routine procedure that you do not want to neglect.
Having said that, most people who have shown the symptoms of it do not know that they must look forward to getting the procedure done.
Well, Colonoscopy in Singapore is suggested for patients who visit the abdominal pain specialist for complaints like persistent abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding, Tenesmus or changes in bowel habits.
So what exactly is Colonoscopy?
Colonoscopy
It is one of the primary and most effective procedures to diagnose colorectal cancer or colon cancer with the help of a specialised tool called the colonoscope.
The colonoscope is a flexible camera-mounted tube that is inserted through the anus all the way to the rectum and colon. The doctors, through the camera, examine the inner walls of the rectum and colon to diagnose the cause of the patient's symptoms.
It also enables the doctors to take sample tissues for biopsy or eliminate any small growths.
When to get a colonoscopy and How Often?
This procedure is a must for the person with prolonged gastronomical issue complaints.
It is also a routine procedure that every person despite of gender, must consider starting at the age of 45. As the chances of colorectal cancer or polyps increase with age, doctors recommend getting a colonoscopy every 5 to 10 years from the age of 45 to the age of 75.
For individuals with a higher risk of developing this cancer, the regular screen interval would be more frequent than this.
Anyone aged between 75 and 85 can consult their health care provider regarding the continuation of their screening. They would recommend it based on your preference or your precious screening results.
People over the age of 85 does not require to get colorectal cancer screening.
- Regarding family history of bowel cancer:
Yes, the colon caser is known to be hereditary.
Do not wait until the age of 45 to get the screening done if you have a family history of colon cancer. This would only make things worse as you are at a higher risk of producing cancer. Start the screenings as early as 20 to 25 years of age.
In the case of relatives who have been diagnosed with cancer at a certain age, it is recommended to get a colonoscopy in Singapore done ten years before the age at which they have been diagnosed.
- Based on previous digestive tract diagnosis reports:
If your previous digestive tract diagnosis has highlighted the following conditions:
- Colorectal polyps
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Then consider getting a colonoscopy earlier.
Conclusion
Colonoscopy is a life-saver procedure, without a doubt. It would help you diagnose cancer early.
So, if you are an individual who has been neglecting any of the above symptoms, then it is about time to visit a gastroenterologist and get a proper diagnosis. For anyone with the age of 45, we highly recommend getting the colonoscopy done without any delay.
It is not just a one-time procedure, do not wait for the symptoms to occur and then seclude your next screening after this age.
Let's build a habit of getting the regular screening together for a healthy life ahead. For more information visit us at: https://www.ardenjrsurgery.com.sg/colonoscopy-singapore
Here you can find our reference post: https://gallstoneremovalsingapore.blogspot.com/2022/11/colonoscopy-what-it-is-when-to-start.html