Return to Search
EN
Regular endoscopic examinations, particularly colonoscopy, are the most effective method for the early detection of colorectal cancer. Colonoscopy allows for the identification and removal of polyps that could lead to cancer before they become malignant, and enables the early detection of existing tumors, thereby preventing cancer development.
Generally, individuals over 50 years of age are recommended to undergo colonoscopic examinations at intervals of 2 to 5 years, considering their risk factors, personal health history, and family medical history. For individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer before the age of 50, it is critically important to start colonoscopies from the age of 40 and repeat them every 5 years. Additionally, for this risk group, an annual fecal occult blood test is also crucial for early diagnosis. For individuals without a family history, regular colonoscopies every 5 years from the age of 50 are considered appropriate.
The diagnosis of colon cancer is made by specialist physicians through detailed evaluations and a series of tests. Following the patient's consultation and physical examination, the following tests may be performed:
* Fecal Occult Blood Test: A simple laboratory test used to detect intestinal bleeding.
* Radiological Examinations: Double-contrast colonography and computed tomography (CT) scans are performed.
* Laboratory Tests: Complete blood count and biochemical tests are conducted. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels may be elevated in some cases of colorectal cancer, aiding in diagnosis.
* Endoscopic Examinations and Biopsy: For a definitive diagnosis, endoscopic methods such as rectoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy are used. Obtaining a biopsy (tissue sample) from suspicious lesions and examining it by a pathologist is essential for confirming a cancer diagnosis.
How is Colon (Bowel) Cancer Diagnosed?
Generally, individuals over 50 years of age are recommended to undergo colonoscopic examinations at intervals of 2 to 5 years, considering their risk factors, personal health history, and family medical history. For individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer before the age of 50, it is critically important to start colonoscopies from the age of 40 and repeat them every 5 years. Additionally, for this risk group, an annual fecal occult blood test is also crucial for early diagnosis. For individuals without a family history, regular colonoscopies every 5 years from the age of 50 are considered appropriate.
The diagnosis of colon cancer is made by specialist physicians through detailed evaluations and a series of tests. Following the patient's consultation and physical examination, the following tests may be performed:
* Fecal Occult Blood Test: A simple laboratory test used to detect intestinal bleeding.
* Radiological Examinations: Double-contrast colonography and computed tomography (CT) scans are performed.
* Laboratory Tests: Complete blood count and biochemical tests are conducted. Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) levels may be elevated in some cases of colorectal cancer, aiding in diagnosis.
* Endoscopic Examinations and Biopsy: For a definitive diagnosis, endoscopic methods such as rectoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, or colonoscopy are used. Obtaining a biopsy (tissue sample) from suspicious lesions and examining it by a pathologist is essential for confirming a cancer diagnosis.