Source: Health Promotion Board, Singapore
Colorectal cancer is the number 1 cancer in Singapore.
Screening tests such the faecal immunochemical test (FIT) and screening colonoscopy can help prevent colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon and rectum). Most cases of colorectal cancer begin as small, non-cancerous growths attached to the wall of the colon. These growths are called polyps and may become cancerous over time.
Symptoms
In the early stages, people with colorectal cancer may not experience any symptoms.
In the later stages, the common signs and symptoms include:
- A change in the bowel habits, including diarrhoea or constipation
- Presence of blood in the stool
- Persistent abdominal discomfort such as cramps, gas or pain
Screening
Screening for colorectal cancer should begin from age 50 for people with no symptoms. The recommended screening tests are:
- Stool blood test (Faecal Immunochemical Test or FIT)
The FIT is a test that
- detects the presence of small amounts of blood (that can’t be seen with the naked eye) in the stools.
- is safe, quick and easy to do, and can be done at home, without the need to change your diet before the test.
- should be done once a year
You will be given 2 FIT kits. Two stool samples should be collected over two days for a more accurate result.
Screening using FIT should be done once a year. However, if you develop signs or symptoms even after a normal FIT result, please see your doctor immediately.
The screening colonoscopy
- uses a flexible tube (colonoscope) to look at the inner lining of the large intestine (colon and rectum).
- takes about 20 – 30 minutes to complete
- has to be done in a hospital by a doctor trained in doing colonoscopies
- should be done once every 10 years
Discuss with your doctor which screening test is best for you.
Treatment
The three main treatment options for colorectal cancer are: surgery, chemotherapy and radiation which may be used alone or in combination.
Surgical options:
- Surgery involves removal of the part of the colon that contains the cancer.
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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy can be used to destroy cancer cells after surgery, to control tumour growth or to relieve symptoms of colorectal cancer. Possible side effects of chemotherapy include:- Nausea and vomiting
- Mouth sores
- Fatigue
- Hair loss and diarrhoea
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Radiation therapy
Radiation therapy uses X-rays to kill any cancer cells that might remain after surgery, to shrink large tumours before an operation so that they can be removed more easily, or to relieve symptoms of colorectal cancer. Side effects of radiation therapy may include:- Diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Fatigue
Interview with a Colorectal Cancer Survivor.
For more videos on colorectal cancer, please visit www.youtube.com/hpbsg
Prevention
You can take steps to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by:
- Eating plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains which contain fibre and antioxidants.
- Limiting fat especially saturated fat from animal sources such as red meat, milk, cheese, ice cream, and coconut and palm oils.
- Limiting alcohol intake.Quitting smoking.
- Staying physically active and maintaining a healthy body weight.
Source: Health Promotion Board, Singapore
For Different types of cancer, see: http://www.hpb.gov.sg/cancer/default.aspx
