The Myths And Truths Behind Colorectal Cancer

The Myths and Truths Behind Colorectal Cancer

Colon cancer 3d illustration

Many people still believe outdated colorectal cancer myths — such as that it only affects men, shows clear symptoms, or can’t be prevented. In reality, colorectal cancer is one of Singapore’s most common yet most preventable cancers. Understanding the facts about screening, prevention, and early detection can help save lives.

Myth 1: Colorectal cancer is a man’s disease.

Colon cancer profiles and tests

Fact: Colorectal cancer affects people of all genders in Singapore.
According to the Singapore Cancer Registry, it is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death among men, and the second most common cancer and third leading cause of cancer death among women.
Everyone — regardless of gender — should take screening seriously.

Myth 2: I don’t have symptoms, so there’s no reason to get screened.

Fact: Colorectal cancer is often called a “silent killer.”
In its early stages, it typically shows no obvious symptoms. By the time warning signs such as blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, or persistent changes in bowel habits appear, the cancer may already be at an advanced stage.
That’s why regular screening is vital — it allows early detection, when treatment is most effective.

Myth 3: Colorectal cancer is not preventable.

A proctologist performs a rectal exam on a patient in a medical chair.

Fact: It is actually highly preventable.
Regular screening can detect and remove precancerous growths before they turn cancerous. In addition, maintaining a healthy lifestyle — eating a balanced, high-fibre diet, staying physically active, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol — significantly lowers your risk.

Myth 4: Age doesn’t matter when it comes to colorectal cancer.

Fact: Risk increases with age, especially after 50.
Most cases are diagnosed in adults aged 50 and above, though younger cases are on the rise.
In Singapore, the Health Promotion Board (HPB) recommends starting regular screening at age 50. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, you should start screening earlier — around age 40, or 10 years before the age your relative was diagnosed.

Myth 5: Colorectal cancer is deadly and incurable.

Fact: When detected early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable.
If found at an early stage (Stage I or II), the five-year survival rate exceeds 90%.
However, when diagnosed late, treatment options become limited and the chance of full recovery decreases. Early detection saves lives.

Myth 6: Having a polyp means I have colorectal cancer.

Removal of a polyp — medical illustration.

Fact: Most polyps are benign (non-cancerous).
However, some types — called adenomatous polyps — can develop into cancer over time if left untreated.
The good news: during a colonoscopy, doctors can remove these polyps easily, preventing them from becoming cancerous.

Myth 7: I don’t need screening because I have no family history.

Fact: About 80% of colorectal cancer patients have no family history of the disease.
This means even if no one in your family has had colorectal cancer, you could still be at risk.
In Singapore, everyone aged 50 and above is encouraged to take the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) once a year or undergo a colonoscopy every 10 years.

The Bottom Line

A man holding a blue ribbon symbolizing colorectal cancer awareness.

Colorectal cancer is common but preventable, and curable when detected early.
Don’t wait for symptoms — take charge of your health by getting screened regularly and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Early detection can make all the difference.
Screen today, for a healthier tomorrow. PRIME

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