What is Colorectal Cancer Screening?
Colorectal cancer screening includes a variety of medical tests aimed at detecting early signs of cancer or precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum. These screenings are essential because colorectal cancer often develops without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. By detecting abnormalities early, screening allows for prompt treatment”often with less invasive methods and better outcomes.
Understanding the Importance of Early Detection
Early detection significantly increases survival rates. According to global statistics, the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer found at its earliest stage exceeds 90%. Screening not only detects cancer but also identifies precancerous growths, helping to prevent the disease from developing in the first place.
Who Needs Colorectal Cancer Screening?
Current guidelines recommend that adults between ages 45 and 75 undergo regular colorectal cancer screening. Individuals with certain risk factors”such as a family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome, or a personal history of polyps or cancer”should consider starting screening earlier and may need more frequent exams.
Recommended Age and Frequency for Screening
General Screening Recommendations
Ages 45“75: Routine screening for average-risk individuals.
Over 75: Discussion of screening benefits versus risks should guide decision-making.
Under 45: Screening is often recommended for those with risk factors or symptoms.
When Should You Start Colorectal Cancer Screening?
Begin colorectal cancer screening at age 45 for individuals at average risk. If you have a family history”for example, a first-degree relative diagnosed before age 60”start screening 10 years before their diagnosis, but never later than age 40.
How Often Should You Be Screened?
The frequency of colorectal cancer screening varies depending on the test type. Here's a breakdown:
Colonoscopy: Every 10 years if no abnormalities are found.
FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test): Once a year.
gFOBT (Guaiac Fecal Occult Blood Test): Once a year.
Stool DNA Test: Every 1 to 3 years.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Every 5 years (or every 10 years if combined with annual FIT).
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): Every 5 years.
Special Considerations: Increased Risk Factors
A personal history of IBD, family history of CRC, or known genetic syndromes may require colonoscopies every 1“5 years. Your healthcare provider adjusts the plan based on individual risk.
Types of Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests Available at Liv Hospital
Stool-Based Tests Explained
Stool-based tests check your bowel movements for signs of cancer or polyps. These tests are non-invasive, can be completed at home, and do not require any physical procedures at a clinic.
FIT Test
The FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test) screens for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer. If the result is positive, a follow-up diagnostic colonoscopy is typically recommended to determine the cause.
gFOBT Test
The guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) is a traditional screening tool that detects hidden blood in the stool, which may indicate colorectal cancer or polyps. Collecting multiple samples over several days improves the test's accuracy.
Stool DNA Test
The stool DNA test detects abnormal DNA from cancer or polyp cells that are shed into the stool. This advanced screening option is more sensitive than traditional tests, though it is also more expensive. It is typically recommended every 1 to 3 years.
Visual Examination Tests
Colonoscopy: The Gold Standard
A colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer involves an endoscopic examination of the entire colon and rectum. It allows for direct visualization and removal of polyps during the same procedure.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Flexible sigmoidoscopy examines the lower part of the colon and is less comprehensive than a full colonoscopy. For increased effectiveness, it is often combined with an annual FIT test.
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
CT colonography, or virtual colonoscopy, uses low-dose CT scans to create detailed images of your colon. This non-invasive procedure requires bowel preparation similar to a traditional colonoscopy and may require additional testing if abnormalities are found.
Emerging Blood-Based Screening Tests
Ongoing research is exploring blood-based biomarker tests for colorectal cancer screening. While these options are promising, they are not yet widely used in clinical practice and are typically available only at specialized centers.
Comparing Colorectal Cancer Screening Tests
Accuracy of Different Screening Methods
Colonoscopy is the most accurate for detecting cancer and precancerous lesions.
Stool DNA tests are highly sensitive but less widely accessible.
FIT/gFOBT offer reasonable sensitivity at a lower cost.
Virtual colonoscopy is more accurate than stool tests but cannot remove polyps during the scan.
Benefits and Limitations of Each Test Type
- Benefit:Provides a complete view of the colon and rectum.
Long screening interval”every 10 years if normal.
Allows biopsy or immediate removal of polyps.
Limitations: Invasive; requires bowel prep and sedation
small risk of bleeding or perforation.
Some recovery time needed.
2.Colonoscopy
Benefits:
• Provides a complete view of the colon and rectum.
• Allows biopsy or immediate removal of polyps.
• Long screening interval”every 10 years if normal.
Limitations:
• Invasive; requires bowel prep and sedation.
• Small risk of bleeding or perforation.
• Some recovery time needed.
3.FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test)
Benefits:
• Non-invasive and convenient for at-home use.
• No dietary restrictions.
• Effectively detects hidden blood in stool.
Limitations:
• Needs to be done annually.
• May miss cancers or polyps that aren't bleeding.
4.gFOBT (Guaiac Fecal Occult Blood Test) Benefits:
• Affordable and widely available.
• Can be performed at home.
Limitations:
• Requires dietary restrictions beforehand.
• Lower sensitivity than FIT.
• Must be repeated yearly.
5.Stool DNA Test (e.g., Cologuard)
Benefits:
• Detects both blood and abnormal DNA in stool.
• High sensitivity for cancer and advanced polyps.
• At-home collection, no prep required.
Limitations:
• Needs to be repeated every 1“3 years.
• More expensive than FIT or gFOBT.
• Can produce false positives, possibly leading to unnecessary colonoscopies.
6.CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
Benefits:
• Non-invasive and quick.
• No need for sedation.
Limitations:
• Requires bowel preparation.
• Cannot remove polyps if found (requires follow-up colonoscopy).
• May uncover unrelated findings (incidentalomas) needing more tests.
7.igmoidoscopy
Benefits:
• Less invasive than a full colonoscopy.
• Quick recovery.
Limitations:
• Examines only the lower colon”can miss issues in the upper colon.
• Most effective when combined with FIT.
Benefits:
- Directly visualizes the entire colon and rectum.
- Allows for biopsy or polyp removal during the same procedure.
Long screening interval (every 10 years if normal).
Limitations:
- Invasive; requires bowel preparation and sedation.
- Small risk of bleeding or perforation.
Recovery time may be needed.
1. FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test)
Benefits:
- Non-invasive and simple to use at home.
- Requires no dietary restrictions.
Effective at detecting hidden blood in the stool.
Limitations:
- Needs to be done annually.
- May miss polyps or cancers that are not bleeding.
3. gFOBT (Guaiac Fecal Occult Blood Test)
Benefits:
- Inexpensive and widely available.
- Can be done at home.
Limitations:
- Requires dietary restrictions before the test.
- Lower sensitivity compared to FIT.
Must be repeated yearly.
4. Stool DNA Test (e.g., Cologuard)
Benefits:
- Detects both blood and altered DNA in stool.
- High sensitivity for colorectal cancer and advanced adenomas.
Done at home with no preparation required.
Limitations:
- Needs to be repeated every 1 to 3 years.
- Higher cost than FIT or gFOBT.
False positives may lead to unnecessary colonoscopies.
5. CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy)
Benefits:
- Non-invasive and quick procedure.
- No need for sedation.
Limitations:
- Still requires bowel preparation.
- Cannot remove polyps if found (follow-up colonoscopy required).
May detect unrelated findings (incidentalomas) that require further testing.
6. Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
Benefits:
- Less invasive than full colonoscopy.
- Quick recovery.
Limitations:
- Only examines lower part of the colon.
- May miss polyps or cancer in the upper colon.
Typically combined with FIT for full effectiveness.
Potential Harms or Discomforts Associated with Screening
Colonoscopy: Rare risks include bleeding or perforation. Bowel prep can be inconvenient.
Stool tests: No procedural risks but require sample collection.
Virtual colonoscopy: Uses radiation; may detect benign findings requiring further testing.
Preparing for Your Colorectal Cancer Screening Test
Stool-Based Test Preparation
Stool-Based Test Preparation
• Receive a collection kit from your hospital or clinic.
• Collect your sample as instructed (usually one stool sample).
• Return the sample to the lab within the specified timeframe.
Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy Preparation
Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy Preparation
• Follow a clear liquid diet for 24 hours before your procedure.
• Take the prescribed bowel-cleansing medication.
• Arrange for transportation after the procedure, as sedation is used.
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
• During: You'll receive sedation. Colonoscopy takes about 20“30 minutes; flexible sigmoidoscopy is typically quicker.
• After: Rest until sedation wears off. Minor bloating or cramping may occur. If polyps are removed, tissue will be sent for pathology testing.
Understanding Your Colorectal Cancer Screening Results
Understanding Your Colorectal Cancer Screening Results
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
What Does a Negative Result Mean?
A negative test means no cancer or suspicious lesions were found. Depending on your test type”with colonoscopy, every 10 years; with stool tests, annually”your next screening will be scheduled accordingly.
What Happens if Polyps Are Found?
What Happens if Polyps Are Found?
Most polyps are benign. Removal lowers your risk of cancer. Pathology results determine their type and guide your future screening schedule.
Next Steps After a Positive Screening Test
Next Steps After a Positive Screening Test
A positive FIT, stool DNA, or suspicious finding on colonoscopy typically leads to a diagnostic colonoscopy (if not already performed), biopsies, and a tailored follow-up and treatment plan.
Receive kit from hospital or clinic
Collect sample per instructions (usually one stool)
Return it to the lab within specified timeframe
Preparing for a Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy
Follow a clear liquid diet 24 hours prior
Take prescribed bowel-cleansing medication
Arrange transportation post-sedation
What to Expect During and After the Procedure
During: Sedation is administered. Colonoscopy takes 20“30 minutes; flexible sigmoidoscopy less.
After: Rest until sedation wears off; minor bloating or cramping may occur.
If polyps are removed, tissue is sent for pathology.
Why International Patients Choose Turkey for Healthcare
Advantages of Medical Procedures in Turkey
Turkey is a leader in medical tourism due to its:
High-quality healthcare at affordable prices
Modern, internationally accredited hospitals
Skilled specialists and multilingual staff
Convenient travel and short wait times
This makes Turkey”and Liv Hospital in particular”an attractive destination for high-quality, value-based colorectal cancer screening.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Excellence at Liv Hospital
Advanced Diagnostic Technology for Accurate Screening
Liv Hospital uses cutting-edge equipment for colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, and stool DNA analysis. We also offer innovative emerging blood-based tests for patients seeking the latest options.
Our Expert Gastroenterology and Surgical Teams
Our expert gastroenterology team and colorectal surgeons are highly trained in advanced screening and minimally invasive procedures. Whether it's a standard colonoscopy or complex polypectomy, your care is in expert hands.
Take control of your colorectal health today.
Schedule your screening at Liv Hospital and benefit from our advanced diagnostic services, expert teams, and comprehensive care for international patients.
* Liv Hospital Editorial Board has contributed to the publication of this content .
* Contents of this page is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment. The content of this page does not include information on medicinal health care at Liv Hospital .
For more information about our academic and training initiatives, visit Liv Hospital Academy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
At what age should I start colorectal cancer screening?
Most guidelines recommend starting at age 45 for average-risk individuals. Screening earlier may be advised with family history or conditions like IBD.
Which colorectal cancer screening test is best?
Colonoscopy is one of the colorectal cancer screening recommendations, and it remains the gold standard. However, non-invasive options like FIT or stool dna test for colorectal cancer screening are suitable for those who prefer convenience or cannot undergo invasive procedures.
Is a colonoscopy painful?
You receive sedation to ensure comfort. Afterward, you may experience mild bloating or cramping, which generally resolves quickly.
How often do I need to get screened?
Colonoscopy: every 10 years (if results are normal)FIT or gFOBT: annually
Stool DNA test: every 1“3 years
What happens if my screening test finds something abnormal?
You'll undergo a diagnostic colonoscopy with biopsy or polyp removal. Your care team will guide you through diagnosis and treatment planning.