结直肠癌：您需要了解的内容，Michael Wong 医生为您讲解
26 June 2025
You might think you’re too young to get colorectal cancer.
But here’s the truth: more adults are being diagnosed at younger ages than ever before.
The scary part? In the early stages, there may be no signs at all. Or the symptoms can be so mild that you don’t notice them.
In this article, Dr Michael Wong, our Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon, explains the signs of colorectal cancer and what you need to know about this disease.
What Is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer often starts as small growths in the colon called polyps. Most are harmless, but it’s hard to tell which ones might become cancer. About 90% of colorectal cancers come from untreated polyps that slowly turn into cancer over 10 to 15 years.
If detected early, the cancer may only be at the tip of the polyp. Removing the polyp with a clean base would remove the cancer completely, with no need for further treatment. That’s why early screening is so important.
Often, symptoms don’t appear until the cancer has grown or spread. Signs to look out for include:
- Unexplained anaemia (pale skin, fatigue, weakness)
- Mucus in your stool
- Unexplained rectal bleeding
- Specks of blood mixed in your stool
- Change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea)
- Abdominal discomfort
Dr Michael also points out a common myth — that rectal bleeding is always caused by haemorrhoids. This isn’t always true; it is also a red flag of colorectal cancer.
If you notice this symptom, don’t wait. See a specialist and get it checked.
Screening for Colorectal Cancer
If you don’t have any symptoms, Dr Michael recommends getting screened once a year starting at age 50.
There are two main types of colorectal cancer screening tests:
- Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): This checks for hidden blood in your stool.
- Faecal DNA Test (M2-PK): This test looks at raised levels of tumour markers in your stool that may indicate the presence of cancer.
If either test is positive, the next step should be a full colonic assessment with a colonoscopy. This is when a doctor uses a small, flexible tube with a camera to examine the inside of your large intestine for any abnormalities.
Your doctor may suggest a colonoscopy even if you haven’t done a screening test, especially if you have symptoms of colorectal cancer. In this case, a colonoscopy is used as a diagnostic tool rather than for screening.
Dr Michael notes that there is also a non-invasive option using CT colonography. This special CT scan allows the doctor to virtually view your colon without using a colonoscope. However, if a tumour is detected, a colonoscopy and biopsy would still be necessary.
What Puts You at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?
According to Dr Michael, those who are at risk of colorectal cancer are:
- Those with a family history of colorectal cancer
- Obese individuals
- Smokers
- Alcohol drinkers
- Those who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease
- Those who frequently consume processed foods, red meat, or grilled food
Early Screening Can Save Your Life
Colorectal cancer can be treated and even cured if it’s found early.
In the early stages, removing a small growth may be enough. For more advanced cases, a radical resection can be performed either through open surgery or a minimally invasive procedure.
If suitable, robotic colorectal surgery is a safe and precise treatment option. It uses smaller keyhole incisions, which result in less pain, faster recovery and an earlier return to your daily activities.
“Some of my patients went home just three days after robotic surgery, without any pain or problems,” said Dr Michael.
If you’re 50 or older, have symptoms, or are at risk, don’t wait. Talk to our Colorectal Surgeon today here.
后退
