What You Need To Know

Colon Cancer Treatment & Detection in Singapore

Colon cancer is no longer just the disease of the elderly(1). Understanding colon cancer and learning to recognise its signs can save lives. From early detection and risk factors to screening methods, treatment options, and prevention tips, International Cancer Specialists (ICS) is committed to providing the knowledge, support, and expert care you need to take control of your colon health.

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DEFINITION

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer occurs in the large intestine and typically appears in the form of polyps or small growths of cells on the intestinal walls. While it typically affects older adults, anyone can be at risk of developing colon cancer. 

If undetected and left untreated, colon cancer can spread to the rectum or break through the colon wall to affect other organs such as the liver. 

From 2017 to 2021, colon and colorectal cancers were the second most common cancer (2) diagnoses for both men and women in Singapore. 

Thanks to medical advancements, colon cancer can be detected early and treated effectively. When colon cancer is found before it has spread, its 5-year survival rate is as high as 90%(3). This highlights the importance of regular screenings and increased awareness in the fight against colon cancer.

What are the Types of Colon Cancer?

Some of the most common forms of colon cancer include:

Adenocarcinomas

These account for the majority of colon cancer cases. Adenocarcinomas(4) begin in the glands that line an organ, in this case, the colon. Colon adenocarcinomas start as polyps that become cancerous over time.

Gastrointestinal Carcinoid Tumors

Carcinoid tumours(5) develop in neuroendocrine cells, which regulate digestion by releasing hormones. These tumours grow slowly and are often discovered incidentally during a colonoscopy or imaging tests for another issue.

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)

GISTs arise from interstitial cells of Cajal(6) which are cells that help regulate peristalsis—the muscle contractions that move food through our intestines. GISTs can start anywhere in the digestive tract, including the stomach.

Signs & Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer may show only slight symptoms or none at all in its early stages. By the time noticeable symptoms appear, the disease may have already advanced.

With an increasing number of colon cancer cases emerging in people in their 20s and 30s(7), it’s crucial for individuals under 45 to be proactive about their colon health and monitor any unusual changes.

The following are signs and symptoms of colon cancer(8) you shouldn’t ignore:

Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool

Unexplained weakness or tiredness

Losing weight unintentionally

Feeling that the bowel is still full even after defecating

Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhoea or constipation

Cramps, bloating, or pain in the belly

If you experience one or more of the above symptoms, it’s important to get your colon checked. Consider booking an affordable, comprehensive screening for colon cancer at ICS.

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Who is at Risk of Colon Cancer?

Some risk factors are beyond our control, and having one or more does not necessarily mean a person will develop colon cancer. However, staying informed and proactive about your health is essential.

Some risk factors related to colon cancer(9) are:

Age

Colon cancer is most common in individuals over 50, but the rising incidence among younger adults is a growing concern. It’s essential for people of all ages to stay alert and learn to recognise potential symptoms. 

Personal or Family History of Polyps or Colorectal Cancer

Your risk of developing colon cancer is higher if you or your immediate family members have previously had colon polyps(9) or colorectal cancer.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases & Other Chronic Conditions

Conditions like Crohn’s disease(10) and ulcerative colitis, which cause swelling and pain in the intestines, can increase the risk of developing colon cancer. Diabetes is also a risk factor for the disease.

Diet

Those who eat high-fat diets and a lot of red or processed meats may see a higher incidence of colon cancer. 

Lifestyle Factors

People who smoke, drink alcohol, and don’t exercise regularly all have a higher likelihood of developing colon cancer. 

The Importance of Early Detection

Stop Colon Cancer Before It Starts

Detecting colon cancer early offers many benefits, including:

Improving treatment effectiveness while minimising invasiveness

Reducing the severity and intensity of side effects

Providing peace of mind and allowing for informed decision-making about your care

SCREENING

Colon Cancer Screening Methods

Modern colon cancer screenings are affordable, accurate, and minimally invasive, providing you with the best chance for early detection. 

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends colon cancer screening(11) for adults aged 45 to 75. However, if you have personal risk factors, you may want to consider getting screened even earlier.

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Stool Tests

Tests like the guaiac-based faecal occult blood test (gFOBT) and the faecal immunochemical test (FIT)(12) can help doctors detect even tiny amounts of blood in the stool. 

When should you get a stool test?  

Once a year

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Flexible Sigmoidoscopy

The doctor will insert a short, flexible, lighted tube into your rectum to check for polyps or signs of cancer in the rectal area and the lower third of the colon(13).

When should you get a flexible sigmoidoscopy?:

Once every 5 years, together with a stool test

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Colonoscopy

his procedure is similar to a flexible sigmoidoscopy, but it allows your doctor to examine the entire colon and rectum for polyps and cancer. Additionally, during a colonoscopy, your doctor can remove most polyps(14) and even some early-stage cancers if detected.

When should you get a colonoscopy?:

Every 10 years for low-risk individuals

At ICS, we offer a full cancer-focused health screening in Singapore which includes a full battery of blood tests, stool tests, colonoscopy, and more. Our dedicated oncology specialists can provide early detection, ensure accurate diagnosis, and give you a detailed medical consultation for peace of mind. 

OUR SOLUTIONS

Colon Cancer Treatment Options at ICS

We offer the latest in medical treatments tailored to your needs, including:

Surgical Options

Minimally invasive surgery to remove tumours in the colon.

Immunotherapy

Boosts the body’s immune response against colon cancer.

 

Hormonal Therapy

Prevents colon cancer regrowth by blocking certain hormones in the body.

Radiation Therapy

High-energy radiation to target and eliminate colon cancer cells.

 

Dietary Care

Personalised nutrition plans to boost immunity and improve overall health while undergoing colon cancer treatment.

Palliative Care

Improves quality of life by providing relief from symptoms like nausea and fatigue.

Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapy

Powerful treatments designed to destroy colon cancer cells and prevent recurrence.

 

The ICS team will work closely with you to choose the best treatment for your needs.

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Steps to Reduce Risk

Can You Prevent Colon Cancer?

While not all cases can be prevented, such as those related to your family history, simple lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. 

Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight.

Eat a nutrient-rich diet with fresh vegetables and lean proteins.

Reduce alcohol intake and avoid smoking.

Schedule a screening for early detection of potential issues.

Gain Confidence in Your Diagnosis with a Second Opinion

Whether you've already had a colon cancer screening or are facing a new diagnosis, getting a second opinion from a trusted oncology specialist can provide you with peace of mind.

A second opinion can help you:

Clarify your first diagnosis

Ensure accurate interpretation of previous test results

Reduce the risk of errors or misdiagnosis

Open the door to more treatment options if necessary

Our team of experienced and qualified colon cancer specialists is here to answer all your questions, clear any doubts, and guide you through your screening, diagnosis or treatment plan with confidence.

4 Steps To Help You Choose The Right Cancer Treatment

Experience Compassionate, Personalised Care at ICS

From the very first screening to all stages of treatment, ICS makes things easier for you by providing the best in accessible, affordable, and accurate colon cancer care in Asia.

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1. Tailored Treatment Plans

Customised to your medical history, financial capacity, and lifestyle to ensure the best possible care.

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2. Financial Support

We help you explore payment options and navigate insurance policies, ensuring that cost doesn’t stand in the way of your treatment.

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3. Expert Care You Can Trust

Our team of experienced oncologists and nurses, who are committed to delivering the highest standard of care every step of the way.

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4. Access Care Anytime, Anywhere

With ICS’ teleconsultation services, so you can consult with our oncology experts at your convenience, including from the comfort of your own home.

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5. Second Opinions

Our cancer specialists give you clarity and confidence in your diagnosis and treatment plan.

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6. Holistic Approach to Cancer Care

We prioritises your physical, emotional, and mental well-being and recovery.

Real Stories, Real Hope

"I'm really grateful to Dr Ooi Wei Seong and the staff of ICS for making my weeks at ICS so bearable. They're an excellent team of healthcare professionals who really care for their patients. During my treatment sessions, they always made sure I was comfortable and checked on me frequently.Dr Ooi is an experienced professional who's deeply knowledgeable in his field, but he also has a very warm, approachable and jovial manner that puts one at ease. All of the clinic staff - the nurses (Pearl, Alena, Pushpa, Kartini and Nerina), the clinic administrator (Susie) and the lady who gives me barley water every week - are a warm and wonderful team and never fail to make me smile during every visit.Thank you to the team at ICS for your compassion and support during this challenging time."

B Chung

Patient

"I am grateful to all the ICS nurses and Dr Ooi for the care throughout my chemo journey. It was the worst 5 months of my life because of the cancer but ICS made it better...First thank you for Dr Ooi for being there throughout the journey esp when I had a fever for almost one month due to Taxol induced Pneumonitis, and for the timely intervention to send me for the necessary heart checks, CT scan, etc, to get to the root of the problem. He did not waste a single day to troubleshoot the problem.I also want to thank the nurses who attended to me. Special mention to Kartini who is very gentle and is incredibly skilled in putting in the IV plug and drawing my blood. Seriously if she poke you its as unpainful as it gets already. I also want to thank Alina and Pushpa for diluting my meds and administering them without hiccups too. I hear stories of chemo leaking into tissues but I never had such experience at ICS because the nurses are very experienced. Plus the part-time nurse (so sorry I forgot your name but remember your warm words) for always making sure I'm comfortable with blankets drinks and such. And Susie for the warm greeting every time I come in.Only issue I have is because they are sooo popular and due to covid measures only 4 patients allowed at one time (I think) so scheduling is a headache. The nurses (esp Alina) try their best to schedule everyone. :)And BTW you can watch Netflix and Viu in the clinic (if the TV is available that day) if you have your own account because they have smart TV. This is very important when you are in discomfort during chemo, any distraction helps. The air is very clean because they have air purifiers in every room. Here are some pics. Cheers."

Xin Hui Tan

Patient

"In my case, Dr. Toh Keng Kiat gave me clear evaluation regarding the disease now happened in my doughter... suggestion dan information also good and clear, it is recommended to do teleconsul before doing a necessary for future action. In my religion should say Alhamdulillah i found the right place to consultation. Thank you."

Amri Santoso

Patient

"I consider myself lucky to be treated by this medical team. Dr Ooi, as always, has been very friendly and patient. He will try his best to give advice to me, other than providing medication, to make me feel better especially during my chemo treatments. The girls are helpful and caring, making sure I am comfortable during the treatments. At times they do brightens up my day considering this is my lowest point of my life. Thank you all of you. I will miss you all."

Ade

Patient

"From Day One, Dr Ooi has put me at ease. With his positive and cheerful behaviour. When my tumours returned shortly after surgery, he was still edging me not to give up. Best of all, he was responsive even if you have concerns outside his clinic hours and wanted to talk to him about it.Thank you for making me feel like I was getting the best care. Thank you to all the nurses (past and present- Hangqi, Pearl, Alìna, Kartini, Pushpa) for making me feel safe, as pain free as possible and cared for. I know I haven’t been an easy patient when the needles come out. But the nurses & staff were extremely patient. Thanks to Susie as well.Great job to all!"

N. Angullia

Patient
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Make Your Colon Health a Priority Today

Early detection saves lives. Whether you need a screening, consultation, or second opinion from colon cancer specialists in Singapore, ICS Cancer is here to provide humane, expert care.

We’re here to help you navigate every step of your journey with the confidence, compassion, and personalised treatment you deserve.

Take the first step to a healthier life with ICS—simply fill in the form below to schedule a consultation with our expert team today.

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FAQ

Yes, if detected early, colon cancer is highly treatable. Stage I and II cancers have a high survival rate after surgery, while Stage III and IV require additional treatments but can still be managed effectively.

Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and drinking can all contribute to better colon health.

A colonoscopy typically takes 20 to 45 minutes. However, you should plan for a total of 2 to 3 hours at the medical facility, including preparation, the procedure, and recovery time.

No, a colonoscopy is not usually painful because patients receive sedation or anaesthesia to keep them comfortable. Most people sleep through the procedure and feel little to no discomfort.

A benign polyp is non-cancerous and does not spread, while a malignant lump contains cancerous cells that can grow and invade surrounding tissues. If left untreated, a benign polyp can potentially develop into cancer. 

Yes, colon cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms, which is why regular screenings are crucial for early detection.

Do send us an email at enquiries@icscancer.com or give us a call at (+65) 6235 9005. Alternatively, if you have WhatsApp, feel free to leave us a message at (+65) 8168 6908 and we will be sure to get back to you as soon as possible.

Certain insurance plans cover health screening costs. Get in touch with us to find out more about your particular plan’s coverage.

Our medical specialists regularly provide friendly second opinions to patients who have been diagnosed with cancer, including patients from restructured hospitals as well as private specialists.

Kindly bring your latest medical reports, scan images, and any relevant test results. Due to safe distancing measures in place, only one accompanying person is allowed per patient.

Yes, we offer comprehensive treatment for foreign patients and assist with all aspects of their care, including medical consultation, treatment, and administrative arrangements.

Teleconsultation allows you to consult with a cancer specialist remotely via video or phone call. This provides a convenient way to receive expert advice without needing to travel. Whether you’re in Asia or beyond, our teleconsultation process is secure and follows all privacy and confidentiality standards to protect your personal and medical information.

Be at ease as at ICS you never walk alone, let us plan for financing together. Upon your visit to ICS for treatment, we provide free financial counselling to assist you in making an informed choice on finance matters, and ensure that you access the most affordable treatment. Our team of nurses with years of experience in handling international, local, and corporate insurance stand ready to assist with any issues with the financing of your treatment that you may have.

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Reference

(1) Colon and rectal cancer on the rise in young adults. (2024, March). UC Davis Health. https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/features/colon-and-rectal-cancer-on-the-rise-in-young-adults-/2024/03 

(2) Common types of cancer in Singapore. (n.d.). https://www.singaporecancersociety.org.sg/learn-about-cancer/cancer-basics/common-types-of-cancer-in-singapore.html

(3) Detecting colorectal cancer | Can colorectal cancer be found early? (n.d.). American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/detection.html#:~:text=When%20colorectal%20cancer%20is%20found,rectum%2C%20survival%20rates%20are%20lower

(4) Adenocarcinoma cancers. (2024, July 2). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21652-adenocarcinoma-cancers 

(5) What is a gastrointestinal carcinoid tumor? (n.d.). American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/gastrointestinal-carcinoid-tumor/about/what-is-gastrointestinal-carcinoid.html 

(6) Katella, K. (2024, January 17). Colorectal cancer: What millennials and Gen Zers need to know. Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/colorectal-cancer-in-young-people 

(7) Colon cancer - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353669 

(8) Colon cancer - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.-b). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20353669#:~:text=called%20metastatic%20cancer.-,Risk%20factors,-Factors%20that%20may 

(9) Colon polyps - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/colon-polyps/symptoms-causes/syc-20352875 

(10) Crohn's Disease. (2024, December 13). Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9357-crohns-disease 

(11) Colorectal cancer: screening. (2021, May 18). https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/recommendation/colorectal-cancer-screening 

(12) Testing for blood in your poo using FIT. (n.d.). Bowel Cancer | Cancer Research UK. https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/tests-and-scans/fit 

(13) Anatomy of Colon and Rectum | SEER Training. (n.d.). https://training.seer.cancer.gov/colorectal/anatomy/ 

(14) Harvard Health. (2023, July 20). They found colon polyps: Now what? https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/they-found-colon-polyps-now-what