To his relief, doctors found a small, early-stage tumor. Thankfully, it hadn’t spread. Within weeks, it was removed, and John avoided chemotherapy entirely. Today, he’s healthy, back to work, and grateful he didn’t wait any longer.

Early detection didn’t just save his life - it gave him back his future.

Colorectal Cancer Screening at a Glance

Colorectal cancer is a significant global health concern and the third most common type of cancer worldwide. Early detection and screening are crucial components in alleviating the burden of this disease. But why is early screening so important, and who should consider it?

Key reasons for regular screening:
 

1. Early Detection: Colorectal cancer often begins as polyps, which can take years to develop into cancer. Detecting and removing these polyps early can prevent the cancer from forming.
2. Increased Survival Rates: Colorectal cancer is much more treatable when detected early, before symptoms develop, and survival rates are significantly higher.
    

When to start having colonoscopies?

Colorectal cancer is most common after the age of 40, with the highest incidence typically between the ages of 50 and 70, after which it gradually declines. Therefore, experts recommend colorectal cancer screening generally for adults from the age of 45 and then every 5 years.

Who should get a colonoscopy?

According to gastroenterologists Dr. Péter Lukovich and Dr. Péter Kokas, regular colorectal cancer screening is recommended for:

• Everyone aged 50 or older, or even earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps.

• Individuals with inflammatory bowel disease or specific hereditary conditions.
   

Understanding Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy is the most effective screening option for colorectal cancer. During the procedure, gastroenterologists examine the entire colon using a flexible tube equipped with a high-resolution camera, allowing doctors to directly detect polyps, cancer, and other abnormalities.

In addition to being an efficient screening tool, colonoscopy has a significant role in removing polyps that may pose potential health risks.

During the colonoscopy process, precancerous polyps are not only detected but also removed.

Colonoscopy screening options in Hungary

In Hungary, colorectal cancer screening is an organized public health service established by the National Public Health Centre (NNK).

Here's what you need to know:
 

The public healthcare system follows a two-step approach:

1. Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): This initial step is a lab test that checks stool samples for hidden blood. Unfortunately, this examination is not as accurate as a colonoscopy, resulting in more false-negative and false-positive results.

This test is carried out in the public healthcare system by evaluating three stool samples. A colonoscopy may be recommended if at least two of them test positive. If only one sample is positive, a repeated examination is advised after six months.

2. Colonoscopy: In Hungary's public system, colonoscopies are available only by medical referral after a positive screening result, i.e., if the FIT results are positive (at least two samples are positive).

Important to note: Accessing public colorectal screening in Budapest can be lengthy—from the initial GP visit to the colonoscopy (assuming a positive FIT result), it may typically take 3 to 6 months. This timeline can extend to a year if a repeat FIT test is required after an initial positive result. Additionally, you can account for high patient volumes and, therefore, typically long appointment waiting times, which can significantly postpone early detection and treatment.

Colonoscopy considerations

Private healthcare provides a convenient option for individuals in Budapest, particularly those unfamiliar with or outside the Hungarian public healthcare system.

What to consider when choosing a clinic for colorectal screening?
 

• Anesthesia and Comfort: Undergoing the procedure with general anesthesia can eliminate pain and reduce discomfort, an option available in some private clinics.

• Experience and Safety: A clinic with a long-standing, experienced endoscopy team can offer better procedural safety and patient care.

• Clear Communication: For non-Hungarian speaking patients, having access to full-service communication in English—from appointment scheduling to result explanations—removes language barriers and simplifies the process.

• Insurance Compatibility: If you have private medical insurance, look for a clinic that can provide direct billing insurance options so you are not paying out of pocket.

• Patient Feedback: Consistent positive reviews can be a helpful indicator of overall service quality and patient satisfaction.

Colonoscopy requires only one day of preparation, during which you can drink fluids to add calories, so complete fasting is not necessary. You can leave shortly after the procedure, but you will need someone to take you home by car. This is for your safety and comfort, as you may feel drowsy or disoriented after the procedure.

Summary

Colonoscopy is the most effective colorectal cancer screening option. It examines the entire lower gastrointestinal tract, enabling direct detection and removal of potentially harmful polyps and abnormalities.

Detecting colorectal cancer early can save your life! Research indicates that colonoscopy leads to approximately a 70% reduction in new colorectal cancer cases and nearly a 90% lower risk of death from the disease. Therefore, it is crucial to be proactive about your screenings!

Why not take charge of your health and schedule your screening today? By being proactive about your health, you're taking a significant step towards your well-being.

Visit the FirstMed website for more details about colonoscopy or to schedule your colorectal screening.