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The following examinations assist in the early detection of colorectal cancer and its precursors and/or preliminary stages:

Haemoccult Test

The so-called Haemoccult test is recommended from age 50 onwards as part of a statutory cancer prevention program. The test verifies invisible (occult) blood in faeces, whereby stool samples are applied to test paper which is then examined in the laboratory. This works because polyps and precancerous conditions or malignancies of a certain size often bleed. The test is inexpensive and easy to carry out. However, the test also has a number of pit falls: not all polyps bleed, the blood can have its origins from haemorrhoids, and food can also falsify the test result. If the test establishes the presence of occult blood, a colonoscopy should be performed for clarification.

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is the visual examination of the colon or parts of the bowl. This examination is carried out by carefully inserting and slowly advancing a very flexible, tube-like instrument (endoscope) into the intestine. At the same time, air is introduced to inflate the intestine. The endoscope is fitted with a cold light source and an optic lens. The images thus produced can be shown on a monitor and studied in detail by the doctor. Any changes in the intestinal mucosa can be clearly identified and can be removed directly during the examination.    

Many people are afraid of a colonoscopy.  The colonoscopy should not usually be painful, however, the preparation for this procedure may be unpleasant. Two days prior to the colonoscopy, the food intake should be adjusted to a light diet and one day before, a laxative is taken to empty and clean the intestinal tract. Only then does the physicianhave a clear view of the intestinal mucosa under investigation. The colon has several  bends and curves making it difficult to advance the instrument without anaesthetia. A general anaesthesia is not necessary; there are highly effective sedatives available which induce a sleep-like condition.     

Generally, the colonoscopy enables the physician to find polyps. However, sometimes, very small polyps are not easily visible. 

Your doctor needs to examine the entire colon. In the past, clinicians thought most polyps developed in the rectum, hence it was considered sufficient to examine that part only but this has been shown to be false. The physician may want to obtain a tissue sample in evidence that the entire colon was examined.        

Polyps discovered during colonoscopy are always removed. These are then examined by the  pathologist to determine whether they are harmless or cancerous. 

If a colonoscopy is performed as part of an early detection program or on suspicion of colorectal cancer, and a tumour is found, it is not removed immediately. Instead, tissue samples are taken to first confirm the diagnosis. 

Because the intestine is inflated with air during a colonoscopy, it is not uncommon to experience flatulence after the procedure. Other side effects e.g. bleeding or penetration of the intestinal wall are very rare.