What Is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum. Using a thin, flexible tube with a camera at the tip, doctors can look for abnormal growths, bleeding, or early signs of cancer. Polyps—small clumps of cells that can develop into cancer—can often be removed during the same procedure, making colonoscopy both diagnostic and preventive.

 

Types of Procedures
  • Colonoscopy: Examines the full length of the colon and rectum. Considered the “gold standard” for detecting colorectal cancer.
  • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy: Examines only the rectum and the lower part of the colon (sigmoid colon). It is shorter, often does not require full sedation, but it cannot detect issues in the upper colon.

Why Screening Is Important?

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in Hong Kong. Most cases develop from precancerous polyps, which often cause no symptoms in the early stages. By detecting and removing these growths, colonoscopy significantly reduces cancer risk.

 

Screening also helps:

  • Detect colorectal cancer early, when it is more treatable.
  • Diagnose conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, chronic bleeding, or unexplained anemia.
  • Provide peace of mind for people at higher risk.

Colonoscopy in Hong Kong: Screening, Government Programmes, and Private Packages

Who Should Get a Colonoscopy?

While every individual’s risk varies, international guidelines and Hong Kong medical experts generally recommend:

  • Adults aged 45 and older: Routine screening should begin even without symptoms.
  • Those with a family history: If a parent, sibling, or child has had colorectal cancer or advanced polyps, earlier and more frequent screening is advised.
  • People with symptoms: Blood in stool, persistent diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, or unexplained weight loss should not be ignored.
  • Patients with chronic bowel conditions: Such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.

 

Colonoscopy Costs in Hong Kong

Costs vary depending on the provider, sedation type, and whether additional procedures (like biopsy or polyp removal) are required.

  • Private sector: Generally HK$8,000 – HK$20,000+.
  • Public sector (CRCSP): Subsidized, but restricted to eligible age group and subject to waiting lists.

 

For individuals who prefer flexibility in scheduling, choice of doctor, and premium facilities, private colonoscopy remains a popular option.

 

Private Colonoscopy Packages via Welloft

Welloft connects patients in Hong Kong with trusted hospitals and clinics offering premium colonoscopy services.

Humansa Central HD Endoscopy - Colonoscopy Package
  • ~45 mins
  • pre-consultation
  • IV sedation
  • Report with detailed imaging
  • Recovery Area/ VIP Room for a rest for the sedation to wear off
Package price
HK$10,800

Prices are indicative and may vary based on procedures performed (e.g. number of polyps removed).

Colonoscopy in Hong Kong: Screening, Government Programmes, and Private Packages

Government Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme (CRCSP)

The Hong Kong Department of Health offers a subsidised screening scheme to encourage early detection.

Eligibility

  • Age 50 to 75.
  • Holder of a Hong Kong Identity Card or Certificate of Exemption.
  • Registered in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHRSS).
  • Asymptomatic and not classified as high-risk.

 

How the programme works:

  1. Participants start with a Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT).
  2. If the FIT is positive, a subsidised colonoscopy is arranged at a participating private medical centre.
  3. The government covers part of the cost, lowering out-of-pocket expenses.

This programme provides broad access, but waiting times and limited provider choice are common.

 

Public vs Private Colonoscopy in Hong Kong

Aspect Public
(Government)
Private
(via Welloft)
Eligibility Age 50–75, HKID,
eHRSS registration
Open to all adults
Cost Subsidised HK$8,000 - 20,000+
Waiting time Often longer Typically shorter
Choice of clinic Assigned, limited Multiple hospitals
and centres
Comfort level Standard Premium facilities,
personalized service
Aftercare Standard follow-up Tailored,
concierge-style support

This comparison highlights why many Hong Kong residents—especially those under 50, or those who want premium care—choose to book through Welloft.

 

Key Takeaways

  • Colonoscopy is the most effective method for colorectal cancer screening and prevention.
  • Hong Kong residents aged 50–75 can benefit from the government-subsidised programme.
  • Private colonoscopy packages via Welloft offer faster scheduling, broader access, and premium facilities.
  • Prices vary but typically range between HK$8,000 and HK$20,000+ in the private sector.

👉 Book a colonoscopy package with Welloft to access trusted clinics, avoid long waiting times, and take a proactive step in protecting your health.

 

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

Preparation usually starts 2-3 days before the procedure. Patients are advised to:
  • Follow a clear liquid diet (soups, juices, tea, water) the day before.
  • Take prescribed laxatives to clean out the bowel.
  • Avoid solid food, seeds, and red-colored liquids.
  • Arrange for an escort home, as sedation is commonly used.
A colonoscopy typically takes 30 – 60 minutes. Sedation is provided for comfort. The doctor inserts a flexible tube with a camera to examine the colon. If polyps or abnormalities are found, they may be removed or biopsied immediately. Patients rest briefly afterward before discharge.
Most patients experience little to no discomfort because of sedation. Some may feel mild bloating or cramping, which usually resolves quickly.
Screening is recommended for adults aged 45 and older, or earlier for those with family history or risk factors.
 If no polyps are found, most people repeat the test every 10 years. If polyps are detected or risk factors are present, screening may be advised every 3–5 years.
  • Government programme: Subsidized, for ages 50–75, but limited choice of providers.
  • Private packages (via Welloft): Available to all adults, shorter waiting times, premium facilities, and wider choice of clinics.

 

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Further Reading