Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme Background

 

The Government-subsidised Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme (previously known as "Colorectal Cancer Screening Pilot Programme") has been regularised and will be extended to asymptomatic Hong Kong residents aged between 50 and 75 in phases.

Participants will first take a Faecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) that can detect small amounts of blood in stool, even if they are invisible to the naked eye. If there is blood, colonoscopy will be arranged to remove polyps, if any, to prevent them from developing into cancer.

 

Eligibility

1. The First Phase has been launched. From now until 31 December 2018, Hong Kong residents aged 61 to 75 years (born in the years 1942 to 1957) can join the Programme.

2. Hold a valid Hong Kong Identity Card or Certificate of Exemption

3. Registered in the Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHRSS) (please visit www.ehealth.gov.hk for details)

4. Do not have symptoms of colorectal cancer, higher colorectal cancer risk, or screening/examination for colorectal cancer within a specified period* (To learn more, please click here)

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FOBT Screening Test with Primary Care Doctor and Colonoscopy with Specialist

The screening test used in the Programme is faecal immunochemical test (an improved version of FOBT), which can detect invisible and small amounts of blood in the stool. FOBT is safe. You will be asked to collect stool specimens at home for bringing to designated specimen collection points, which will then be transported to laboratory for analysis. Testing is free in many clinics enrolled in the Programme. 

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Blood detected in your stool does not necessarily mean you have colorectal cancer. It can also be caused by other conditions. You should discuss with your PCD regarding further investigations to look for the cause of bleeding.

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Your PCD will contact you for the Second Consultation:

1. Explain the implications of a positive FOBT result.

2. Refer you to a Colonoscopy Specialist (CS) for colonoscopy examination to find out the cause of bleeding​​

3. For subsidized specialists, referral to CS enrolled under the Programme. The Government will provide subsidy for the “Standard Package of Colonoscopy Service” provided by these specialists. Depending on the choice of CS, you may be required to pay a co-payment fee which should be no more than HK$1,000. In general, the waiting time for the procedure is usually less than 8 weeks. Click here to view the list of enrolled CS and their co-payment fee. Find below for the list of Colonoscopy Specialist

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Colonoscopy Specialists: