Colorectal Cancer: A Silent Threat to Thai Women That Can Be Prevented
Colorectal cancer is becoming an increasingly silent threat to Thai women, with a rising mortality rate—particularly among those aged 45 and older. At this stage of life, the body naturally begins to decline, and many women unknowingly accumulate risk factors over time.
The good news is that this disease is both preventable and treatable—especially when detected in its early stages. Colonoscopy is the most essential tool in the fight against colorectal cancer, offering a safe and effective way to screen for and detect precancerous conditions before they become life-threatening.
สารบัญบทความ คลิกเลือกหัวข้อที่ท่านสนใจ
Colorectal Cancer in Thai Women: A Silent Threat That Continues to Rise Every Year
Why Women Aged 45 and Above Should Pay Close Attention
According to the National Cancer Institute of Thailand, colorectal cancer ranks among the top five most common cancers in Thai women. The risk increases significantly in women aged 45 and older, as abnormal polyps in the colon—potential precursors to cancer—become more likely to develop. If left undetected or untreated, these polyps can gradually progress into cancer over time.
Statistics and Trends in Thailand
The incidence of colorectal cancer in Thailand has been increasing steadily each year, particularly in major urban areas where dietary habits often involve high consumption of processed and high-fat foods, coupled with a lack of regular physical activity.
- According to the National Cancer Institute of Thailand (2022), colorectal cancer ranks as the third most common cancer among Thai women, following breast cancer and cervical cancer. The data also indicates that the incidence rate continues to rise steadily each year.
- In 2025, it is estimated that Thailand will see approximately 15,939 new cases of colorectal cancer annually—an average of 44 new cases per day. The mortality rate is also concerning, with an average of 15 deaths per day, totalling roughly 5,476 deaths per year attributed to colorectal and rectal cancer.
Sources: The Standard, Thansettakij, Thai PBS
What Is Colorectal Cancer and How Does It Develop?
The Mechanism Behind Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer often begins with a polyp—a small growth on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. While most polyps are benign, certain types, known as adenomatous polyps, have the potential to develop into cancer if left undetected over several years.
The progression—from a polyp to abnormal cells and eventually to cancer—can take 5 to 10 years. This period represents a “golden opportunity” during which the polyp can be detected and removed before it becomes harmful.
In most cases, colorectal cancer originates at the cellular level, triggered by mutations in the DNA of the epithelial cells lining the colon. When the body fails to regulate cell division properly, these mutated cells multiply uncontrollably, eventually forming a malignant tumour. The cancer can then invade the bowel wall, spread to nearby lymph nodes, and potentially metastasise to other organs, such as the liver or lungs.
Lifestyle Risk Factors That Contribute to Colorectal Cancer
Although genetics can be a contributing factor, long-term lifestyle habits play a major role in increasing the risk of colorectal cancer. The following behaviours are known to elevate risk levels:
1. Excessive Consumption of Processed or Red Meats
- Examples include sausages, bacon, ham, grilled or fried meats—especially when charred.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies processed meats as Group 1 carcinogens (known to cause cancer in humans).
2. Low-Fibre Diet
- A lack of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can impair digestive health.
- Dietary fibre helps support bowel movements and reduces the contact time between waste and the intestinal lining.
3. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
- These habits increase the likelihood of genetic mutations in intestinal cells.
- They can also weaken the immune system, reducing its ability to detect and eliminate abnormal cells.
4. Lack of Physical Activity
- Regular movement encourages natural bowel contractions, which help prevent the build-up of toxins in the colon.
5. Genetics or Family History of Colorectal Cancer
- Especially if a first-degree relative—such as a parent or sibling—has been diagnosed with the disease.
- While genetics cannot be changed, the risk can be significantly reduced through healthy lifestyle choices.
Most importantly, early screening—before any symptoms appear—is key.
When colorectal cancer is detected in its early stages, the chances of survival are very high.
Warning Signs, You Should Know — But Shouldn’t Wait For
Although colorectal cancer is a dangerous disease, the real concern lies in the fact that in its early stages, there are often no noticeable symptoms. Many people are unaware that their bodies are undergoing changes, and by the time symptoms appear, the disease has usually progressed.
Therefore, being aware of symptoms is not enough — screening is the true path to survival.
Possible Symptoms in Some Cases
Although early-stage colorectal cancer is often silent, certain symptoms may appear and should not be ignored:
- Blood in the stool
- Changes in bowel habits, such as alternating constipation and diarrhoea, or chronic constipation/diarrhoea
- Persistent lower abdominal pain
- Bloating or abdominal discomfort without a clear cause
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue caused by anaemia
But If You Wait for These Symptoms to Appear… It May Already Be Too Late
These symptoms often emerge only after the tumour has grown or started to spread, which may indicate that the cancer has already reached stage 2 or 3. At this point, treatment becomes far more complex than preventive screening.
Screening = Effective Prevention
What Is a Colonoscopy?
A colonoscopy is a detailed examination of the colon using a specialised medical device—a small, flexible camera. The procedure involves inserting the camera through the rectum and gradually advancing it through the entire colon. The images of the colon’s inner lining are displayed in real time on a monitor, allowing the doctor to detect:
- Polyps, which are early signs of potential cancer
- Tumours or abnormal growths
- Inflammation, ulcers, or internal bleeding
- Signs of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or chronic inflammatory bowel disease
Colonoscopy allows direct visualisation of the colon walls and can detect even small polyps or tumours. If a suspicious polyp is found during the procedure, it can often be removed immediately, helping to prevent progression to cancer.
Early Detection Leads to a Cure
A colonoscopy can detect polyps or tumours even at a very early stage, when they are still small. In many cases, these can be removed immediately during the procedure, without the need for surgery. This means colonoscopy not only enables early detection, but also allows for immediate treatment. If colorectal cancer is detected in its early stages, the survival rate exceeds 90%.
Recommended Screening Frequency for Thai Women Aged 45 and Above:
- Begin screening from the age of 45
- If no abnormalities are found, screening should be repeated every 5–10 years
- If polyps are detected or there is a family history or other risk factors, more frequent screening may be necessary—as advised by your doctor.
Why Choose Colonoscopy? Benefits You May Not Know
Detect Polyps Before They Turn Cancerous
- Some types of polyps cause no symptoms at all
- Removing polyps before they mutate into cancerous cells is the key to effective prevention
Painless, Safe, and Highly Accurate Procedure
- Modern colonoscopies are much smaller and more advanced, reducing irritation
- Most patients are given sedation, helping them feel relaxed or even sleep through the procedure. When they wake up, they often don’t remember it at all
- The procedure takes only 30 to 60 minutes, and there’s no need for hospital admission
- Doctors use high-definition video to examine the colon lining in detail, allowing them to detect even very small polyps or tumours
- Tissue samples can be taken for biopsy, or polyps can be removed immediately
Clearing Up Common Misconceptions
“Is a colonoscopy painful?”
- At BNH Hospital, colonoscopy is performed under sedation to ensure you feel relaxed and sleep comfortably throughout the procedure. When you wake up, the examination will already be complete—with no pain or discomfort to worry about.
“I'm afraid of being diagnosed with something serious, so I avoid screening.”
- The purpose of a colonoscopy is not just to find bad news, but to perform a life-saving screening. In particular, it can detect polyps, which are early-stage growths that could potentially develop into cancer if left untreated.
- Detecting and removing these polyps early can prevent cancer from forming altogether.
The earlier the detection, the higher the chance of cure—nearly 100% if caught at an early stage, even before symptoms appear.
“I feel embarrassed about the procedure.”
At BNH Hospital, we offer private bowel preparation rooms for each individual, ensuring maximum comfort and privacy.
Our experienced doctors and nurses are fully understanding and respectful of your feelings, and will provide discreet and compassionate care every step of the way.
“Isn’t the preparation complicated?”
- While some preparation is needed—such as avoiding certain foods and cleansing the bowel—the process is straightforward. BNH Hospital provides clear instructions and close support, making it easy and comfortable for you to prepare properly.
How to Prepare for a Colonoscopy
Proper preparation is essential to ensure that your colonoscopy results are as accurate as possible. One of the most important steps is cleansing the bowel thoroughly. At BNH Hospital, we have designed the preparation process to be simple, comfortable, and effective.
General Pre-Procedure Guidelines:
- Two days before the procedure:
Eat only soft, easily digestible foods. Avoid vegetables, fruits, and foods high in fibre. - One day before the procedure:
Avoid red meats, dark-coloured juices (e.g., grape juice), chicken essence, and all dairy products.
Stick to clear liquids only, such as clear broth, apple juice, or jelly. - Take the prescribed laxatives to cleanse the bowel, exactly as instructed by your doctor.
👉 BNH One-Day Service
At BNH Hospital, we offer a One-Day Service for added convenience. Patients can arrive in the morning to prepare their bowel under the care of our specialised nursing team, with access to a private preparation room. In the afternoon, you will undergo the colonoscopy with a gastrointestinal specialist.
*This service is included at no additional cost within the package.
Summary
Start Taking Care of Yourself Today with a Colonoscopy
Checklist: “Is It Time for Me to Get Screened?”
- You are aged 45 or above
- You have a first-degree relative with colorectal cancer
- You have risk factors, such as frequent consumption of red or processed meats, or regular alcohol intake
If you answered “yes” to any of the above, it’s time to consider colorectal cancer screening via colonoscopy.
Knowing your risk—and acting early—is a priceless gift to yourself and those around you. Because a healthy gut means a healthier life. It all begins with you taking the first step.
Make Your Gastroscopy Experience Simple and Hassle-Free.❗️
Eliminate Long Waiting Times! Digestive Care Centre, BNH Hospital
Comprehensive Services Available Every Day. No matter the time morning, late morning, afternoon, or evening our Digestive Care Centre at BNH Hospital is ready to provide full-service gastroscopy procedures daily.
Convenient and Reliable: Begin your bowel preparation in the morning and undergo the gastroscopy procedure in the afternoon.
Specialized Care: Our expert nurses provide close supervision and attentive support throughout every step of your bowel preparation process.
No Additional Costs: Bowel preparation services are included at no extra charge.
Your comfort and confidence are our priorities. Trust us for seamless, professional digestive care.
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy at BNH Hospital
- Expert Specialists: BNH Hospital boasts a team of highly skilled gastroenterologists who are experienced in performing gastroscopies and interpreting the results. Their expertise ensures accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment recommendations.
- Advanced Technology: The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, including advanced endoscopy systems using AI and NBI technology from Japan. This technology allows for clear visualisation of the gastrointestinal tract, increasing the accuracy of the procedure.
- Patient Comfort: BNH Hospital is known for its patient-centred approach, offering a comfortable and supportive environment. Bowel preparation facilities are provided in a private setting to minimise patient anxiety and discomfort, even when patients are on their own.
- Patient Comfort: If a colonoscopy is also scheduled, BNH Hospital’s team of specialised nurses will provide comprehensive care, including administering appropriate laxatives at the right time. This ensures a smooth and comfortable bowel preparation process, minimising discomfort and avoiding issues like incomplete or painful bowel movements, especially when traveling.
- Patient Comfort: Experience a convenient and comfortable one-day colonoscopy, from preparation to procedure.
Comprehensive Care: BNH Hospital provides a comprehensive approach to patient care, from pre-procedure preparation to post-procedure follow-up. Should any abnormalities be detected during the colonoscopy, BNH Hospital is equipped to provide seamless and comprehensive
Gastroscopy & Colonoscopy Package
Another dangerous cancer that often appears without warning signs is colorectal cancer.
” Don’t be complacent! Colon cancer can be cured if detected at an early stage. “
Gastroscopy 18,000 THB
Include
- Doctor’s fee for gastroscopy
- Endoscopy room fee
- Preparation room fee
- Laxative medication fee
- Anesthesia fee (sedation)
- Medical equipment and instrument fee
- Hospital service fee
Colonoscopy 25,000THB
Include
- Doctor’s fee for colonoscopy
- Endoscopy room fee
- Bowel preparation room fee
- Laxative medication fee for bowel preparation
- Anesthesia fee (sedation)
- Medical equipment and instrument fee
- Hospital service fee
- Recovery room fee
Gastroscopy + Colonoscopy 39,000THB
- Doctor’s fee for gastroscopy
- Doctor’s fee for colonoscopy
- Endoscopy room fee
- Bowel preparation room fee
- Laxative medication fee for bowel preparation
- Anesthesia fee (sedation)
- Medical equipment and instrument fee
- Hospital service fee
- Recovery room fee
- Please make an appointment in advance.
- This price includes doctor fees and hospital service fees.
- This package includes an anaesthesia for the endoscopy (moderate sedation).
- This package does not include a general anaesthesia fee conducted by an anaesthesiologist, if required.
- This package does not include additional fees other than for the endoscopy itself, such as additional biopsy tests, room and board in the case of inpatient stay (admission), and medication and treatment of other illnesses.
Service Location: Digestive Care Centre, 3rd Floor, Zone B, BNH Hospital
Operating Hours: Monday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.
Purchase a Package
For inquiries, contact our staff via LINE
ทำนัดหมายแพทย์ออนไลน์ | Appointment
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Luksana Chokrungvaranont, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Gastroenterology
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Sayam Thaiudom, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Gastroenterology
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Assoc. Prof. Siwaporn Chainuvati, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Internal Medicine,Gastroenterology
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Suthep Wanichapol, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Family Medicine,Internal Medicine,Gastroenterology
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Prof. Varocha Mahachai, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Gastroenterology
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Prof. Duangporn Werawatganon, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Family Medicine , Internal Medicine , Gastroenterology
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SARANRAT TOEYWATANACHAI, MD.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Internal Medicine,Gastroenterology
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PROOKSA ANANCHUENSOOK, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Gastroenterology
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SALISA WEJNARUEMARN, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Gastroenterology and hepatology
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NATCHA CHEEWASEREECHON, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: INTERNAL MEDICINE, GASTROENTEROLOGY
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NATSUDA BENJACHINCHAIKUL, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: INTERNAL MEDICINE, GASTROENTEROLOGY
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ASSOC. PROF. PHONTHEP ANGSUWATCHARAKON, M.D.
Digestive Care Centre
Specialty: Internal Medicine,Gastroenterology