Colorectal cancer—commonly known as bowel cancer, colon cancer, or rectal cancer—is one of the most prevalent cancers globally, and it ranks among the top cancers in Singapore for both men and women. Fortunately, advances in early detection, surgical techniques, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies have significantly improved the prognosis and survival rates for patients.
Singapore stands at the forefront of colorectal cancer treatment in Singapore, offering world-class medical facilities, multidisciplinary care teams, and the latest in diagnostic and therapeutic technology. Whether you are a resident, an expatriate, or a medical tourist, Singapore provides one of the most comprehensive and high-quality care environments in the region.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon (large intestine) or rectum and typically begins as benign polyps that may become cancerous over time. It is often asymptomatic in its early stages, which is why regular screening is crucial. Common symptoms, when they do appear, include:
Blood in the stool
Changes in bowel habits
Persistent abdominal discomfort
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
The risk factors include age (especially over 50), family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and diets high in red or processed meat.
Why Singapore for Colorectal Cancer Treatment?
1. World-Class Medical Expertise
Singapore’s healthcare system is staffed with highly trained oncologists, colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, and radiologists. Many specialists have trained internationally and bring with them extensive experience in both conventional and advanced treatment protocols.
2. Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Early and accurate diagnosis is critical in colorectal cancer management. Singaporean hospitals offer:
Colonoscopy with polyp removal
CT colonography
PET-CT scans for staging and metastasis detection
Biopsy and molecular testing for personalized treatment planning
3. Comprehensive, Multidisciplinary Care
Leading cancer centers in Singapore operate using a Multidisciplinary Tumor Board approach. This means that oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, and nurses collaborate on each patient's case to develop an individualized treatment plan.
4. Cutting-edge Treatment Options
Singapore combines conventional treatments with innovative approaches:
Minimally invasive and robotic surgery
Targeted drug therapy and immunotherapy
Precision radiation therapy (IMRT, SBRT)
Genomic profiling for personalized medicine
5. Excellent Patient Support and Aftercare
From psychological counseling and dietetics to rehabilitation and palliative care, Singapore ensures that every stage of a patient’s journey is supported with compassion and clinical excellence.
Colorectal Cancer Treatment Options in Singapore
1. Surgical Treatment
Surgery remains the cornerstone of treatment, especially for early and localized stages.
Polypectomy and Local Excision: For very early-stage cancer confined to polyps.
Laparoscopic Colectomy: Minimally invasive removal of the cancerous part of the colon.
Robotic-assisted Surgery: Offers greater precision and faster recovery, especially in rectal cancer cases.
Colostomy/Ileostomy: In some cases, the creation of a stoma may be necessary temporarily or permanently.
2. Chemotherapy
Used as adjuvant (post-surgery), neoadjuvant (pre-surgery), or palliative treatment, chemotherapy may include drugs like:
5-Fluorouracil (5-FU)
Capecitabine (Xeloda)
Oxaliplatin
Irinotecan
Chemotherapy can be delivered orally or intravenously and is often combined with other treatments.
3. Radiation Therapy
Particularly effective in treating rectal cancer, radiation therapy is used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells. Techniques include:
External beam radiation
Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT)
Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy (SBRT)
4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
For advanced or metastatic cancer, Singapore’s cancer centers offer cutting-edge treatments:
Targeted Therapy: Drugs like bevacizumab (Avastin) and cetuximab (Erbitux) target specific proteins in cancer cells.
Immunotherapy: Drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) are used for tumors with certain genetic markers like MSI-H or dMMR.
These therapies are often available through clinical trials or specialized treatment programs in Singapore’s leading institutions.
Colorectal Cancer Screening and Early Detection in Singapore
Given its often silent progression, colorectal cancer is best combated with proactive screening. Singapore has a national screening program (Screen for Life) that recommends:
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) annually from age 50
Colonoscopy every 10 years for those at higher risk
Many private and public hospitals also offer comprehensive health screening packages that include colorectal screening options.
Leading Hospitals and Cancer Centers in Singapore
Some of the top facilities offering colorectal cancer care include:
Public Hospitals:
National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS)
National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS)
Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH)
Private Hospitals and Clinics:
Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard and Novena)
Gleneagles Hospital
Parkway Cancer Centre
Farrer Park Hospital
Raffles Hospital
These institutions provide both inpatient and outpatient care, and often have dedicated cancer support services.
Recovery, Rehabilitation, and Support
Recovery from colorectal cancer treatment can vary based on the stage of cancer and type of treatment received. Singapore provides extensive post-treatment care, including:
Nutritional counseling
Stoma care training and support
Physical rehabilitation
Psychosocial counseling
Cancer survivor support groups
Hospitals and non-profit organizations like the Singapore Cancer Society play a vital role in helping patients transition from treatment to normal life.
Conclusion
Colorectal cancer is a serious but highly treatable disease when detected early and managed appropriately. Singapore offers a gold standard in colorectal cancer treatment, combining advanced medical expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care. Whether through minimally invasive surgery, cutting-edge targeted therapy, or robust support systems, patients can expect holistic and effective care at every stage of their journey.