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Colorectal Cancer Screening with Colonoscopy

Indications, technique, and surveillance schedule for colonoscopic detection of colorectal neoplasia

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Onkoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Colorectal Cancer Screening with Colonoscopy?

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. Adenoma-carcinoma sequence over ten to fifteen years provides a long window for screening, and removal of adenomatous polyps reduces incidence and mortality.

Recommended screening starts at age forty-five for average-risk adults and earlier in patients with first-degree relatives diagnosed before sixty, hereditary syndromes, or inflammatory bowel disease. Quality measures include adenoma detection rate above twenty-five percent, cecal intubation rate above ninety-five percent, and adequate bowel preparation in eighty-five percent or more.

Surveillance interval after polypectomy depends on number, size, and histology of polyps. One or two adenomas under one centimeter return at seven to ten years, while three to four small adenomas or any advanced histology lead to three-year surveillance. High-grade dysplasia, sessile serrated polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease modify follow-up. Quality colonoscopy is more effective than fecal-based tests for detection of advanced lesions.

Symptoms

Asymptomatic average-risk eligible adult
Family history of colorectal cancer
Iron deficiency anemia in older adult
Recent change in bowel habit
Hematochezia or melena

Risk Factors

Age over forty-five
First-degree relative with colorectal cancer
Hereditary syndromes such as Lynch or familial polyposis
Long-standing ulcerative colitis or Crohn disease
Personal history of adenomatous polyps

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When age forty-five is reached for screening
  • When change in bowel habit lasts beyond six weeks
  • When iron deficiency anemia is unexplained
  • When family history merits earlier evaluation
  • When polypectomy follow-up is due

Treatment Methods

01
Average-risk screening colonoscopy starting at age forty-five
02
Quality preparation with split-dose regimen
03
Cecal intubation with photo documentation
04
Polypectomy with histologic evaluation
05
Surveillance interval based on polyp findings
06
Earlier or more frequent exams in high-risk groups
07
Discussion of alternative tests when colonoscopy is declined

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Onkoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.