What is bowel cancer screening?
Bowel cancer screening reduces the chances of developing bowel cancer, through early identification and better treatment.
Bowel cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the UK. The condition is treatable if diagnosed in the early stages. Survival rates for men and women have doubled over the last 30 years as a result of earlier diagnosis and better treatment.
Our comprehensive bowel cancer screen incorporates the most up to date procedures and colonoscopy to:
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identify whether you have bowel cancer or may be likely to develop the condition in the future
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remove for examination, any polyps, or small growths, some of which may be cancers, or could become cancers over time.
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ensure you are referred quickly for further examination or treatment if needed
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advise you on any concerns you may have
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highlight any issues you may need to address
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help you make positive lifestyle choices
Benefits of bowel cancer screening at Bupa Cromwell Hospital
Located in Kensington, central London, Bupa Cromwell Hospital is a technologically advanced private hospital. Our discreet and comfortable Endoscopy Suite, where bowel cancer screening takes place, has all the very latest equipment.
Our doctors and clinical support team focus exclusively on endoscopy; they are highly experienced, and use the most modern techniques. if you do need further treatment you have direct access to the Bupa Cromwell Hospital Cancer Centre which is led by a specialist multidisciplinary team of consultants, supported by dedicated cancer clinical specialists and nurses, using the most modern techniques.
Why should I consider screening for bowel cancer by colonoscopy?
Treatments for bowel cancer are more likely to be effective if the condition is detected at an early stage. Colonoscopy is the most effective way to diagnose bowel cancer with over 99% accuracy, and enables the specialist to examine the whole colon including the upper colon, which would not be possible by sigmoidoscopy.
You may particularly wish to be screened if you belong to one of the higher risk groups for bowel cancer, for example if you have reached 50 or more years of age, which is when polyps are more likely to develop. You are at increased risk if you are a smoker and or, if you have:
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a diet high in red meat and low in fruit, vegetables and fibre
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obesity issues
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low levels of physical activity
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high levels of alcohol consumption over an extended period
What does bowel cancer screening involve?
Firstly we ask you to complete a questionnaire to help our specialist consultants decide whether bowel cancer screening is appropriate for you.
Once they have considered your responses, the consultant will telephone you to discuss the results, and whether or not you are suitable for bowel cancer screening using colonoscopy.
Results of your colonoscopy
A written record of the results of your colonoscopy will be given to you at the end of your appointment.
If any polyps are removed, the results will be ready within seven days, and your consultant will discuss these with you at your follow-up consultation.
Comprehensive package
We offer a complete packaging which includes consultancy fees, the colonoscopy examination; CT scan; and analysis of any biopsies taken.