How a Colonoscopy Can Help Detect Colon Cancer Early
By:
Apex Hospitals
14-07-2025

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is one of the most common and life-threatening cancers worldwide, but it’s also one of the most preventable when detected early. In India alone, over 70,000 new cases and 40,000 deaths were reported in 2022. Early detection significantly improves survival rates, and that’s where colonoscopy plays a critical role. A colonoscopy is a safe, effective screening test that allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum for signs of cancer or precancerous growths (polyps). At Apex Hospitals, we often see patients who are either unaware of the importance of this test or anxious about the procedure. But the truth is, colonoscopy can help detect colon cancer before symptoms appear, or even prevent it entirely by removing abnormal growths during the same procedure. If you're over 45, have a family history of colon cancer, or are experiencing changes in bowel habits, this test could be life-saving. In this blog, we’ll explain how colonoscopy works, why early detection matters, and when you should consider getting screened.
What is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure used to closely examine the inside of your large intestine, which includes the colon, rectum, and anus. It falls under the category of endoscopy, where a flexible, tube-like instrument known as a colonoscope is used. This device features a small camera and light at its tip, enabling doctors to view real-time images of the intestinal lining on a screen as it passes through the rectum and colon. Colonoscopy plays a crucial role in detecting issues such as polyps, abnormal growths, inflamed or irritated tissue, and early signs of colorectal cancer. In addition to diagnosis, it also serves therapeutic purposes; doctors can remove polyps during the procedure or take tissue samples for further biopsy, making it both a preventive and diagnostic tool.
Why Colonoscopy is Crucial for Early Colon Cancer Detection
Colon cancer often begins as small, benign polyps in the colon. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous. The earlier they are found and removed, the better the chances of preventing colon cancer altogether.
Colonoscopy is the gold standard test because:
- It allows direct visualization of the colon.
- Doctors can remove polyps during the test itself.
- It provides biopsy samples for lab analysis.
- It detects cancer at an early, more treatable stage.
Symptoms You Might Experience Before a Colonoscopy is Recommended
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, or narrowing of stool)
- Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty completely
- Chronic fatigue or anemia
How Accurate is Colonoscopy in Detecting Colon Cancer?
Colonoscopy is considered the gold standard for detecting colon cancer, thanks to its high accuracy and ability to both detect and prevent the disease in a single procedure. It can identify over 95% of colorectal cancers, especially when performed by our experienced specialists. What sets colonoscopy apart is its ability to spot precancerous polyps and remove them during the same session, effectively stopping cancer before it starts. Studies show that colonoscopy significantly reduces the risk of dying from colorectal cancer, particularly when done at the recommended intervals. While no test is 100% perfect, colonoscopy remains the most reliable screening tool available today for early detection and prevention of colon cancer.
Colonoscopy procedure
A colonoscopy is a routine, minimally invasive procedure that allows doctors to examine the inside of your large intestine (colon and rectum) for any abnormalities. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what typically happens during the procedure:
Preparation:
A Day before the procedure, you’ll be asked to follow a special diet (usually clear liquids) and take a prescribed bowel prep solution to empty your intestines. This step is crucial for clear visibility during the exam.
Before the Procedure:
On the day of the colonoscopy, you’ll be given a mild sedative or anaesthesia to help you relax and ensure the procedure is painless.
During the Procedure:
The doctor gently inserts a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope into your rectum. This tube has a small camera and light at the end, which transmits live images to a monitor. The scope is carefully guided through the rectum and colon, allowing the doctor to look for polyps, inflammation, or cancerous growths. If any suspicious areas are found, they can be biopsied or removed immediately.
After the Procedure:
You’ll be observed for a short time while the sedation wears off. Most people feel normal within a few hours, although mild bloating or gas is common. You’ll need someone to drive you home.
Results:
If polyps or tissue samples were removed, you may need to wait a few days for biopsy results. Your doctor will explain the findings and let you know when your next screening is due.
Colonoscopy is a safe and highly effective test that not only detects early signs of colon cancer but can also help prevent it entirely by removing precancerous polyps during the procedure.
Dr. Kuldeep Singh, our gastroenterologist, says, “Colonoscopy is more than a diagnostic tool; it’s a prevention strategy.”
When Should You Get a Colonoscopy Screening?
- Age 45 or older and have never had a colonoscopy before.
- It’s been 10 years or more since your last colonoscopy.
- Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.
- Previous colonoscopy showed abnormal tissue or polyps, you may need follow-up screening sooner.
- Genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).
- Chronic inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
Note: Regular colonoscopy screenings are essential for detecting colon cancer early and improving the chances of successful treatment. Always consult your doctor for a screening plan tailored to your risk factors.
Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Book your colonoscopy screening today at Apex Hospital, Jaipur.
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