👉 Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month: Check your eligibility for FIT screening and subsidies
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    Colorectal Cancer Awareness Initiative

    HMI’s Pledge: 1,500 FIT Screenings

    Colorectal cancer is one of the more common cancers in Singapore, but regular screening can help detect it early. This Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, HMI Singapore is encouraging 1,500 FIT screenings to support preventive health in the community.

  • Follow our progress below

    • When you should get screened

    Family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps
    Blood in the stool
    Persistent changes in bowel habits
    Unexplained abdominal discomfort, fatigue, or weight loss
    Generally recommended from age 50

    Colorectal cancer screening and diagnostic tests

    Screening tests (such as stool tests like the FIT test) look for early signs that something may need checking. If a screening test shows an abnormal result, doctors may recommend diagnostic tests such as colonoscopy or biopsy to find out the exact cause.

    Eligible Singaporeans may receive subsidised FIT screening for $0 to $5 ➜

    FIT Test (Faecal Immunochemical)

    Colonoscopy

    Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)

    The FIT test is a simple screening test for colorectal cancer that detects hidden blood in the stool. This may sometimes indicate polyps or colorectal cancer.

    The FIT test is commonly used for colorectal cancer screening in Singapore and may be included in health screening packages. It is:

    • Simple and non-invasive
    • Can be completed at home or in clinic
    • Requires only a small stool sample

    • Often recommended once a year for individuals aged 50 and above

    If the FIT test detects blood in the stool, your doctor may recommend further checks, such as a colonoscopy, to determine the cause.

    A positive screening test does not mean you have colorectal cancer. It means additional checks are needed to understand the result.

    What happens after a screening test

    It is important to know that a positive screening test does not mean you have colorectal cancer. Many results are due to non-cancerous conditions such as polyps or piles, and follow-up tests help confirm the reason.

    Step 1

    If your screening test shows an abnormal result

    The next step is usually a colonoscopy to examine the colon and identify the cause. You may be referred to a gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon for further assessment.

    An abnormal result does not necessarily mean cancer. It can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions such as polyps, piles (haemorrhoids), or inflammation.

    Step 2

    Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy

    A colonoscopy allows the doctor to examine the inside of the colon using a thin flexible camera. During the procedure, the doctor may remove polyps or take small tissue samples (biopsies) for testing if needed.

    Step 3

    Understanding the diagnosis

    Colonoscopy results usually fall into one of three outcomes:

    • Normal findings – no concerning abnormalities are detected
    • Polyps detected – these can often be removed during the procedure
    • Cancer confirmed – further evaluation helps guide the next steps

    Most follow-up tests after screening do not lead to a cancer diagnosis.

    Step 4

    Treatment planning and follow-up care

    If the results are normal or polyps are removed, your doctor will advise on future screening and follow-up care.

    If colorectal cancer is diagnosed, your care team will discuss further tests and treatment options to support your care.

    Finding problems early often means simpler treatment and better outcomes.

    Frequently asked questions

    Does a positive screening test mean I have colorectal cancer?

    I am under 50. Do I need colorectal cancer screening?

    Who should I see for colorectal screening or digestive symptoms?

    Can colorectal screening be done as part of a health screening?

    Are there subsidies for colorectal cancer screening in Singapore?