4 Early Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer | Are You Ignoring the Signals?

Early-stage colorectal cancer symptoms are often subtle and easily confused with general gastric discomfort. For those in a mature life stage, being vigilant about these "4 Early Warning Signs" is critical, especially after age 40:

  • Persistent Abdominal Pain: Continuous bloating, localized cramps, or discomfort that does not resolve.
  • Changes in Bowel Habits: Sudden onset of constipation, diarrhea, or changes in stool frequency and difficulty.
  • Blood or Mucus in Stool: Visible blood, dark tarry stools, or unusual mucus can signal polyps or bleeding.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: Significant weight loss in a short period linked to impaired intestinal absorption.

Even without these symptoms, clinical guidelines recommend regular screening after age 40, as early-stage colorectal cancer is frequently entirely asymptomatic.

 

Colorectal Cancer Staging | Timeline and Survival Rates

The progression of colorectal cancer varies, but if not caught early, cancer cells can spread to the lymph system or distant organs within months. Here is the staging and survival rate breakdown:

 

Stage Characteristics 5-Year Survival Rate
Stage I Cancer limited to the bowel wall ~85%
Stage II Spread to outer tissues but not lymph nodes ~70%
Stage III Spread to the lymph system ~55%
Stage IV Metastasis to distant organs (Liver, Lungs) Less than 10%

 

These figures emphasize a critical reality: the window from early to late-stage cancer can be remarkably brief. Regular checks are essential for maintaining quality of life.

 

Comparison of Premium Colorectal Screening Methods

Welloft has curated five common screening methods available at leading private centers in Hong Kong to help you choose the most suitable plan:

Screening Method Key Features Ideal For
FIT / FOBT Non-invasive, simple, can be done at home Preliminary screening; asymptomatic
M3CRC Stool Genomic Test 94% Sensitivity; HK-developed (CUHK) Avoiding colonoscopy; high accuracy
Colonoscopy The gold standard; immediate polyp removal Symptomatic or family history
Cancer Markers (CEA) Rapid blood test; part of overall screening General cancer risk assessment
Abdominal Ultrasound Scans organs outside the intestinal tract Combined liver/kidney assessment

 

How to Choose the Best Screening Path?

  • Asymptomatic (Age 40+): Start with a non-invasive FIT or the high-sensitivity M3CRC genomic test.
  • Symptomatic or Family History: Proceed directly to a Colonoscopy for definitive diagnosis and immediate treatment.
  • Comprehensive Wellness Seekers: Combine blood markers with an abdominal ultrasound for a 360-degree assessment of your health.

Welloft provides access to top-tier private institutions—including Portfield, Gleneagles, Union, and Matilda—with health consultants ready to assist in your personalized plan.

 

Recommended Colorectal Screening Plan

Humansa Central HD Endoscopy
Colonoscopy Package
  • Total 1 item
  • Key Checkup Item: Colorectal Cancer Risk Assessment
  • Specialist Care: Performed by experienced medical professionals in a premium setting
  • Advanced Equipment: High-definition endoscopy for precise detection and peace of mind
  • Carefree Experience: Streamlined clinical process designed for quality of life
Colonoscopy Screening Fee
HK$10,800
Book Now

 

SC Day Procedure Center - Colonoscopy Package
  • Total 4 item
  • Colonoscopy, Pre- and post-procedural doctor consultations
  • Monitored anesthetic care by registered anesthesiologist
  • Two specimen bottles for histology
  • AI-assisted Colonoscopy to enhance polyp detection
Colonoscopy Screening Fee
HK$16,800
立即預訂

Colorectal Cancer & Screening Q&A

A: The risk profile for colorectal cancer increases significantly after 40. Since early stages are often "silent," regular screening is the only way to catch issues during the highly curable "Golden Treatment Window."

A: Common early signs include:

  1. Persistent abdominal pain or discomfort
  2. Changes in bowel habits
  3. Blood or mucus in stool
  4. Unexplained weight loss
Screening is recommended even if no symptoms are present.
A: Progression speeds vary, but undetected cancer cells can spread to lymph nodes or other organs within months. Stage IV survival is less than 10%, whereas Stage I is as high as 85%.

A: Common methods include:

  • FIT / FOBT: Non-invasive, simple preliminary screening
  • M3CRC Genomic Test: High sensitivity (94%), developed by CUHK
  • Colonoscopy: Highest accuracy; allows for immediate polyp removal
  • CEA Blood Test: Rapid check for general cancer risk markers
  • Abdominal Ultrasound: Evaluates organs outside the colon
A: Welloft offers various elite medical centers and health consultants to help you decide.
  • Asymptomatic: Opt for FIT or the M3CRC test
  • Symptomatic/Family History: Colonoscopy is highly recommended
  • Comprehensive Health: Combine blood tests with ultrasounds
A: Procedures like a colonoscopy require bowel cleansing and fasting. Non-invasive tests like FIT or M3CRC can be completed at home with no fasting or dietary restrictions required.

 

Conclusion | Empowering Your Long-term Health Journey

Your health is the foundation of a carefree life. Early-stage colorectal cancer is highly treatable, but missing the window for detection can have irreversible consequences. For those who prioritize quality of life, regular screening is not just health management—it is a commitment to yourself and your loved ones.

Ready to take the next step? Book Your Colorectal Screening  NOW to ensure your health remains a pillar of your lifestyle.

 

Welloft Exclusive: Get a HK$100 Uber Ride Voucher

From now until 31/01/2026, spend HK$2,500 or more at Welloft (excluding vaccines) and receive a HK$100 Uber e-voucher for a comfortable journey to your health checkup!

Get a HK$100 Uber Ride Voucher

 

>>View Offer Details

 

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