Colorectal Cancer Screening... No Colonoscopy Required, Pain-Free
A new alternative for colorectal cancer screening that offers peace of mind through preventive care with SDC2 Methylation technology. Boasting up to 90% accuracy without the need for a colonoscopy, pain, or bowel preparation, this truly innovative healthcare solution enhances quality of life. It allows for the detection of early-stage risk signals, enabling proactive health planning with maximum efficiency at BNH Hospital.
Key Takeaways for You
High-Precision Technology: Detects the “Genetic Signature” through the methylation of the SDC2 gene in cancer cells.
Early Detection: Offers higher sensitivity than standard faecal occult blood tests (FIT or Stool Occult Blood) for detecting cancer and cells at risk of becoming cancerous.
Value Comparison: Compared to the typical “Colonoscopy Price” of approximately 29,000 THB, gene testing is an accessible starting alternative that screens up to 90% of risks without any pain.
Superior to Blood Tests (CEA): SDC2 Methylation testing in stool is more specific to colorectal cancer than traditional blood-based tumour markers (CEA).
BNH Hospital Standards: Assured by international standards; testing and sample collection must be conducted at the hospital to ensure the most accurate “stool collection method for colorectal cancer screening”.
Important Condition: If the test result is positive, patients must undergo a colonoscopy for further clinical diagnosis and treatment.
Why should you screen for colorectal cancer now?
Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in Thailand and is the only type with a continuously increasing incidence across all genders. However, data indicates that over 58.8% of Thais have never undergone screening due to anxiety and the complexities of bowel preparation.
Detection at the Molecular Level: There is no need to wait for a tumour to bleed, as required by standard FIT or FOBT methods. Instead, this test detects abnormalities from naturally shed exfoliated cells.
Early Intervention: Detecting risks at the polyp (Adenoma) stage allows for prevention and treatment before the condition develops into invasive cancer.
Benefits of Stool DNA Testing (SDC2 Methylation):
Safe and Convenient: A non-invasive procedure, ideal for those anxious about the preparation required for a colonoscopy.
Early-Stage Detection: Accurately identifies colorectal cancer risks and cells with the potential to become cancerous in their earliest stages.
Ideal for Primary Screening: Serves as a primary screening method for the general population with average or moderate risk levels.
Important Considerations (for Medical Accuracy):
Potential for False Positives/Negatives: Despite high sensitivity, there remains a possibility of false positive or false negative results.
Follow-up Requirements: A positive result necessitates further investigation, such as a colonoscopy, to confirm the diagnosis and proceed with treatment.
Size Limitations: The test may not detect all polyps or abnormalities, particularly those that are extremely small.
Comparison Chart: Selecting the Most Suitable Screening Option
| Comparison Criteria | Stool DNA (SDC2 Methylation) | Colonoscopy | Faecal Occult Blood Test (FIT/FOBT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Role | Risk Screening | Diagnosis and Treatment | Preliminary Screening |
| Cancer Sensitivity | High (approx. 90%) | Highest (95-99%) | 73% - 80% |
| Polyp Detection | 42% - 50% | 75% - 93% | Very low (< 42%) |
| Bowel Preparation | No preparation required | Requires laxatives | No preparation required |
| Comfort Level | Painless | Potential anxiety (typically requires anaesthesia) | Painless |
Who Should and Should Not Undergo This Test?
✅ Recommended for:
Individuals aged 45 and above.
Those with average risk (no immediate family history of colorectal cancer).
Asymptomatic individuals (showing no abnormal symptoms such as rectal bleeding or unexplained weight loss).
Those seeking a highly accurate screening method while wishing to avoid a colonoscopy.
Individuals willing to undergo an immediate follow-up colonoscopy should the test result be confirmed as Positive.
❌ Not Recommended for:
Individuals with a history of colorectal cancer or those previously diagnosed with high-risk polyps (Advanced Adenoma).
Those currently experiencing symptoms suggestive of colorectal cancer, such as chronic abdominal pain or anaemia.
Individuals with a high-risk genetic family history, such as Lynch Syndrome or FAP.
Patients with chronic inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn’s disease.
Individuals unable or unwilling to undergo a colonoscopy in the event of a Positive test result.
Medical References
Clinical Validation of SDC2 Methylation: Molecular sensitivity and specificity testing with an accuracy of 90.2% [Reference: PubMed PMC8050895]
Genomictree EarlyTect Technology: Technical information from the developer of the faecal gene testing technology [Reference: Genomictree Official]
- Thai Population Study: A study on the efficacy of colorectal cancer screening using innovative Stool DNA technology in the Thai population [Reference: Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention, 2022]
FAQ
1. What is a FIT Test, and how does it differ from a gene test?
A FIT (Faecal Immunochemical Test) screens for hidden blood in the stool, which is typically detected only when a tumour has grown large enough to rupture and bleed. In contrast, the SDC2 Methylation gene test can detect abnormalities at the molecular level during the earliest stages, even before any bleeding occurs.
2. What is CEA, and why is gene testing more accurate?
CEA is a tumour marker found in the blood that can rise due to various non-cancerous factors, such as smoking. However, SDC2 Methylation stool gene testing is far more specific to colorectal cancer, providing significantly higher accuracy for early-stage screening.
3. If my Stool Occult Blood result is Positive, can I have a follow-up gene test?
Yes, you can, for added peace of mind. BNH’s technology detects specific molecular abnormalities with high precision. However, should a high risk be identified, our specialists will recommend a diagnostic colonoscopy to confirm the findings and proceed with the necessary treatment.
4. Is the cost of a colonoscopy significantly higher than a gene test?
A colonoscopy is a clinical procedure with a higher associated cost (approximately 29,000 THB). At 12,000 THB, a gene test serves as a highly cost-effective primary screening alternative for individuals with average risk levels.
5. If the test result is Negative, when should I be re-tested?
While a Negative result provides significant peace of mind, it is recommended to undergo repeat screening every 3 years, in accordance with international medical standards.