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Colon Cancer Screening

Preventive colonoscopy that finds and removes polyps before they turn into cancer.

Overview

Colon cancer is one of the most preventable cancers when caught early. Screening colonoscopy looks for polyps — small growths that can turn into cancer over years — and removes them before they become a problem. Screening is recommended from age 45 for average-risk adults, or earlier if there's a family history or symptoms. India is seeing rising rates of colon cancer, especially in urban populations and people under 50.

Common symptoms

  • Often no symptoms in early stages — that's why screening matters
  • Change in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
  • Blood in stools or rectal bleeding
  • Iron-deficiency anaemia of unclear cause
  • Unintentional weight loss
  • Persistent abdominal discomfort or cramping

When to see a doctor

If you're 45 or older and haven't had a screening colonoscopy, book one. With a family history of colon cancer or polyps, start 10 years before the relative's age at diagnosis. Any new bowel symptoms in adults — bleeding, changing habits, anaemia, weight loss — need prompt evaluation regardless of age.

How we help

We perform screening colonoscopy under sedation for comfort, with full bowel preparation reviewed beforehand. If polyps are found, we remove them during the same procedure (polypectomy) and send them for pathology. Based on the findings, we guide on follow-up timing — usually 3 to 10 years. For confirmed cancer, we coordinate staging and onco-surgical referral.

This is general information, not a substitute for medical advice. For guidance specific to your case, please consult Dr. Ch. Saikumar or another qualified specialist.

Patient questions

Colon Cancer Screening — common questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often about colon cancer screening.

At what age should I get my first colonoscopy?
For average-risk adults, age 45. With a family history of colon cancer, start 10 years before the youngest affected relative's age at diagnosis — or earlier if there's a syndrome like familial polyposis.
How often should I get screened?
For average-risk patients with a normal colonoscopy: every 10 years. If polyps are found, sooner — usually 3 or 5 years depending on type and number. We'll guide follow-up based on the pathology results.
How is the bowel prep done?
Clear-liquid diet the day before, then a prescribed laxative solution (PEG-based) in the evening and early morning of the procedure. We provide detailed written instructions when you book.
Is colonoscopy painful?
No. Sedation keeps you comfortable throughout. Some mild bloating or cramping for a couple of hours afterwards is normal and settles quickly.
What happens if polyps are found?
They're removed during the same procedure (polypectomy) and sent for pathology. Most polyps are benign. The pathology result guides how soon you'll need a follow-up colonoscopy — usually 3 to 10 years.
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