{
  "id": 19697725,
  "title": "Stool tests, blood tests or colonoscopy: Which colorectal cancer screening method is right for you?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/12/stool-tests-blood-tests-or-colonoscopy-which-colorectal-cancer",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-11-12T20:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Straits Times",
    "slug": "straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/stool-tests-blood-tests-colonoscopy-which-colorectal-cancer-screening-method-alpine-surgical"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": null,
  "summary": "Colorectal cancer screening methods include stool tests, blood tests, and colonoscopies, each with their own strengths and limitations. Colorectal surgeon Dr Aaron Poh explains that age and family history are crucial factors in determining the appropriate screening method and age to begin screening. For instance, Emma Chen, who was advised to undergo a colonoscopy at 38 after her father was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at 60, had her procedure delayed until she was 42. During the examination, doctors found a large polyp containing early invasive cancer, which was subsequently removed. Dr Poh emphasizes that earlier screening could have made a difference, as it might have detected the polyp before it became cancerous, allowing for less invasive removal. He also notes that blood in the stool, changes in bowel habits, persistent abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss are warning signs that warrant medical attention, even though the disease can develop without noticeable symptoms. According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2023, colorectal cancer was the second most common cancer among both men and women, with increasing cases among adults under 50.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}