Colon & rectal cancer is a top silent killer disease in Singapore. Often, there are no symptoms in the early stages. By the time symptoms show, the cancer may already be in the advanced stages and the chances of survival are greatly reduced. In Singapore, people above the age of 50 is at greater risk, especially Chinese males. Early detection, treatment and prevention is key.
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What Are The Symptoms Of Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer is often without symptoms in the early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Disruption in the bowel movement
- Consistent diarrhea and constipation
- Recurrent bowel movements with blood in them
- Pain or cramping in the lower abdomen, as well as gas or bloating
- Fatigue or a feeling of exhaustion
- Gastrointestinal insufficiency (whereby the digestive system is unable to properly digest and absorb nutrients from food)
- Sudden weight loss
Colorectal Cancer Screening?
Colorectal cancer screening is aimed at early detection before symptoms show. Screening methods are employed to identify precancerous growths (polyps) or cancer at its earliest stages, often when it is more treatable or curable.
Some of the common colorectal cancer screening methods include Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) and colonoscopy, the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
FIT is considered a “preliminary” screening for colorectal cancer. It can detect the presence of small amounts of blood in faeces and can be nearly 80% accurate in detecting colorectal cancer. If the results are positive, the patient should follow up with further investigations to confirm the cause of the results. It is a simple, non-invasive test to undertake, and should be done annually.
Colonoscopy Screening
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Colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer is (to date) the best screening method as it enables the doctor to detect and remove the polyp before it becomes cancer.
Colonoscopy is a minimally invasive procedure for examining the inside of the colon. During colonoscopy, a colonoscope is inserted into the patient through the rectum. The colonoscope is a long, soft and flexible tube about 1 cm in width, with a small video camera located at the end. With this, the doctor can see the inside of the colon and diagnose any abnormality. The procedure may take about 20 – 30 minutes.
Polyps and other types of abnormal tissues that are discovered during a colonoscopy may be removed using the colonoscope during the procedure.
“Early detection is key to better patient outcomes. A colonoscopy isn’t just a procedure; it’s a potentially life-saving decision.”
– Dr Lee Kuok Chung, Colorectal Surgeon, Crest Surgical Practice
Learn More: Preparation For A Colonoscopy Screening
Who Should Undergo Colonoscopy Screening For Colorectal Cancer?
The following table is based on MOH guidelines for colorectal cancer screening using colonoscopy in Singapore:
Cost Of Colonoscopy In Singapore
For colonoscopy cost in Singapore, we can expect to pay around $3,800 – $5,000 in private clinics or hospitals. Requirements for biopsies or polyp removal will result in additional costs.
MOH historical data (TOSP Code: SF704C Colon, Colonoscopy, fibreoptic with removal of polyp (single or multiple less than 1cm)) – as of May 2026 – shows that a median cost of about S$2,674 for day-surgery procedures done in public hospitals (without government subsidies), and about S$4,374 at private hospitals.
Colonoscopy Price Comparison – Singapore, Malaysia And Thailand
For those who find the cost of colonoscopy in Singapore prohibitive, an alternative is to undergo the procedure in a neighbouring country where medical costs are generally lower. Based on online sources, the starting prices of stand-alone colonoscopy procedures in Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand range from:
| Country | Starting Cost | Remarks |
| Singapore | S$3,800 to S$5,000 | Singapore private healthcare is world-class in quality and has the benefit of convenience for Singapore-based patients. |
| Malaysia | From S$859 (RM 3,000) (Johor Bahru – KPJ Bandar Dato Onn) Approx. S$1,361 (RM 4,500) (Kuala Lumpur – Prince Court Medical Centre) S$1,512 (RM 5,000) (Kuala Lumpur – Gleneagles Hospital) | Many Malaysian hospitals are internationally-accredited and delivers excellent service. Additional charges may apply e.g. for further consultation, medication, investigation, and treatment. |
| Thailand | Approx. S$750 (THB 19,000) (Bangkok – Vimut Hospital) | Many Thailand hospitals are internationally-accredited and delivers excellent service. |
The actual cost will vary depending on the choice of hospital and the type of sedation used. This would also be before the cost of any other related procedures such as polyp removal or biopsies, or additional medication required. Costs may also change over time.
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