Screening
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the third most common cancer worldwide. It is more common in developed countries, and in India, the incidence of bowel cancer has been steadily increasing. The good news is that bowel cancer is one of the most treatable types of cancer if detected early. That is why screening for bowel cancer is so important.
Screening is the process of looking for signs of a disease in people who have no symptoms. In the case of bowel cancer, screening involves looking for polyps or growths in the colon or rectum. These polyps can turn into cancer over time, so removing them during screening can prevent the development of bowel cancer. There are different types of bowel cancer screening tests, including stool tests, colonoscopies, and virtual colonoscopies. The choice of test depends on the individual’s age, family history, and overall health. The Bowel Cancer Foundation of India recommends that people at average risk of bowel cancer start screening at the age of 45. People with a family history of bowel cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening at an earlier age.
At the Bowel Cancer Foundation of India, we offer bowel cancer screening services to people in Pune and the surrounding areas. Our team of experienced doctors and nurses will guide you through the screening process, from choosing the right test to interpreting the results. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure that our screening services are accurate, safe, and comfortable.
Colon Cancer Screening
Stool Tests: Stool tests are a non-invasive way to screen for bowel cancer. They detect the presence of blood in the stool, which can be a sign of bowel cancer or other conditions. There are two types of stool tests: the fecal occult blood test (FOBT) and the fecal immunochemical test (FIT). The FOBT is an older test that requires multiple stool samples and a special diet. The FIT is a newer test that only requires one stool sample and does not require any dietary restrictions. Both tests are highly sensitive and can detect small amounts of blood in the stool. If the test is positive, further tests, such as a colonoscopy, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a more invasive test that allows doctors to examine the colon and rectum directly. During the procedure, a flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the anus and guided through the colon. The doctor can see any polyps or growths and remove them if necessary. The procedure is done under sedation, so you will not feel any pain or discomfort.
Virtual Colonoscopy: A virtual colonoscopy, also known as a CT colonography, is a newer type of screening test that uses CT scans to create images of the colon and rectum. The images are then examined for signs of polyps or growths. The test is less invasive than a colonoscopy and does not require sedation. However, if polyps are found, a follow-up colonoscopy may be needed to remove them.
At the Bowel Cancer Foundation of India, we recommend that people at average risk of bowel cancer undergo screening every two years. People with a family history of bowel cancer or other risk factors may need to undergo screening more frequently. Regular screening is important because it can detect bowel cancer at an early stage, when it is most treatable.
If you are interested in bowel cancer screening, please contact the Bowel Cancer Foundation of India. Our team will work with you to determine the best screening test for your individual needs and guide you through the screening process. We believe that everyone should have access to high-quality bowel cancer screening services, and we are committed to helping people in Pune and the surrounding areas stay healthy and cancer-free.