How often should I go for preventive care?

The precautionary guidelines are based on statistical values and the accumulation of cases of illness. It has been shown that the incidence of colorectal cancer increases at the age of 50 in people of all risk groups and even without previous illnesses. For this reason, it is advisable to keep to the recommended appointments, which are covered by health insurance, and to have a colonoscopy every 10 years from the age of 55 onwards. Especially if polyps or other changes in the intestinal walls have already been detected, the preventive examinations suggested by the doctor should be adhered to for your own safety.

Does the health insurance pay?

The health insurance company pays for this form of medical diagnosis if there is a medical indication or a suspected diagnosis and if the examination is recommended as part of the usual preventive examinations. According to the recommendations, stool examination is paid for annually from the age of 50 and colonoscopy is paid for every 10 years from the age of 55. In the case of risk patients, an individual risk is assessed by a doctor, after which the preventive examinations should be performed and paid for. If abnormalities are discovered during a colonoscopy, further preventive examinations at closer intervals can be paid for. In the case of small polyps, for example, a colonoscopy should be performed every 5 years, and more frequently if the changes are more advanced.

What are the costs?

The cost of colorectal cancer screening is relatively high, which is why it is rarely performed before the recommended minimum age. Of course, it is also possible to have earlier check-ups at your own expense. However, a colonoscopy often costs more than 300€, excluding anesthesia and sedation.

However, the tests for stool examination (haemococcult) can be purchased and performed independently. They are available at low prices in pharmacies. However, the tests for stool examination (Hemoccult) can be purchased and performed independently. They are available at low prices in pharmacies.

Which doctor does the colon cancer screening?

Tests, such as the test for blood in the stool, can be prescribed and performed by any doctor. The family doctor in particular is a suitable contact person for the first preventive medical checkups. However, a short stay in hospital is necessary for a colonoscopy.

This can usually be done on an outpatient basis, so that the patient can leave the clinic a few hours after the examination. The examinations are carried out by gastrointestinal specialists, the gastroenterologists. Most hospitals have endoscopic centres where this type of endoscopy can be performed.

What exactly is colon cancer?

In principle, colorectal cancer can occur in any part of the intestine. The small and large intestine as well as the anal region can be affected. In most cases, however, the term colorectal cancer (synonyms: colorectal carcinoma, colon carcinoma, rectal carcinoma) refers to a form of cancer that manifests itself in the end sections of the colon.

The malignant cells of colorectal cancer develop mainly from the mucosa lining the colon tube. The most common forms of colorectal cancer are rectal and colon cancer. In the case of rectal carcinoma, degenerated cells are found in the area of the last section of the intestine, the rectum (rectum). In contrast, colon carcinoma manifests itself in more oral sections of the colon.