Colon cancer is one of the most common but preventable cancers in both men and women. Yet many people delay screenings out of fear, discomfort, or a lack of information. At Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC), we want to change that narrative. Colonoscopy is a powerful tool that not only detects colorectal cancer early but also prevents it altogether by identifying and removing precancerous polyps. With proper timing, education, and access to care, colon cancer can be caught when it’s easiest to treat—or even before it starts.
What a Colonoscopy Really Is — and Isn’t
A colonoscopy is a safe, low-risk procedure that allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum using a long, flexible tube with a camera (colonoscope).
What it is:
• A 30- to 60-minute outpatient procedure
• Done under mild sedation (you’ll be asleep or very relaxed)
• Allows for immediate removal of polyps if found
• Typically performed every 5 to 10 years for average-risk individuals
What it isn’t:
• Painful or scary (sedation makes it comfortable)
• Something to avoid out of fear
• Only for people with symptoms (screening is for the healthy, too!)
When Should You Start Screening?
The recommended age to begin colon cancer screening is:
• Age 45 for most people with average risk (updated from age 50 due to rising early-onset cases)
• Earlier if you have risk factors (see next section)
If your initial colonoscopy is normal, your next test may not be needed for another 10 years. If polyps are found, your doctor may recommend a shorter interval.
Signs and Risk Factors That Warrant Earlier Testing
Some people should consider screening before age 45 or more frequently than others. Early screening may be recommended if you:
Have these symptoms:
• Blood in stool or black, tarry stools
• Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, narrow stools)
• Abdominal pain or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fatigue or weakness
Have these risk factors:
• A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis
• Personal history of cancer or polyps
• Genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome or FAP
At CGHMC, our team of specialists can help determine your ideal screening timeline.
What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure
Before:
• Your doctor will give you detailed instructions to clean out your colon (usually with a liquid prep the day before)
• You may need to fast and avoid certain medications temporarily
During:
• You’ll receive sedation for comfort
• The doctor inserts the colonoscope to examine the colon
• Polyps or suspicious tissues may be removed or biopsied immediately
After:
• You’ll recover in a monitored room for 30–60 minutes
• You may feel bloated or gassy, but this usually passes quickly
• You can return home the same day but will need someone to accompany you
• Your doctor will follow up with results and next steps
CGHMC ensures privacy, comfort, and safety at every stage.
How Colonoscopies Prevent Cancer, Not Just Detect It
Colonoscopy isn’t just about early detection—it’s about prevention. Most colorectal cancers start as polyps (abnormal tissue growths in the colon lining). These polyps can be completely harmless or evolve into cancer over time. A colonoscopy allows your doctor to find and remove these polyps before they become dangerous.
Benefits of colonoscopy:
• Removes precancerous lesions in real-time
• Reduces risk of developing colorectal cancer by up to 70%
• Offers peace of mind with long screening intervals
Colonoscopy is the gold standard for colon cancer prevention.
CGHMC’s Digestive Endoscopy Services: How to Book, What to Prepare
CGHMC houses one of the most advanced Digestive Endoscopy Units in the country. Our services include:
• Diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy
• Endoscopic polyp removal
• Full digestive evaluations for gastrointestinal symptoms
• Multidisciplinary care in coordination with oncology and surgery
To schedule your colonoscopy at CGHMC:
• Call (02) 8711 4141 local 297
• Visit our Digestive Endoscopy Unit at the CGHMC Wellness Center
We offer clear prep instructions, dedicated nurse support, and a seamless patient experience.
