Senior Consultant Colorectal Specialist MBBS (S’pore), MMed (SURGERY), FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (S’pore)
- Over 16 Years’ Experience Managing Colorectal Cancer
- Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh)
- Pursued Advanced Colorectal Surgery Training in Australia
- Recipient of Multiple Service Quality Awards
Not only is colorectal cancer the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Singapore, it is also one that is easily detected in the pre-cancerous stage.
This makes a colonoscopy all the more important and worthwhile, since one can potentially
prevent colorectal cancer or detect it in its early stages when it is most treatable.
During your first consultation, Dr Toh Ee-Lin will conduct a detailed evaluation of your medical
history and assess your current state of health.
From there, Dr Toh will determine your risk level of colorectal cancer and recommend a tailored
screening plan for you.
You may feel fine, but early-stage colorectal cancer generally does not present with symptoms.
By the time symptoms arise (e.g. persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss
and fatigue, blood in stool, abdominal discomfort), the cancer would’ve already progressed;
further underscoring the importance of getting screened in higher-risk individuals:
- Being above 50 years of age
- Having a family history of colorectal cancer
- Having a personal history of colorectal cancer
- Having a personal history of colon polyps
A colonoscope is a long, thin and flexible tube that is attached to a small camera and light.
With the patient sedated, the colonoscope will be gently inserted into the patient’s anus and
threaded through the entire colon, transmitting clear images of the colon and rectum in
real-time.
Should abnormal growths like polyps be found, they will be removed on the spot, which prevents
colorectal cancer from developing (if the polyp was found to be pre-cancerous in nature).
If the doctor finds anything else concerning, they will also be evaluated on the spot and a
suitable treatment plan will be planned and carried out.
Senior Consultant Colorectal Specialist MBBS (S’pore), MMed (SURGERY), FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS (S’pore)
Having graduated from the National University of Singapore with a medical degree, Dr Toh went on to become a Fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons (Edinburgh) and pursued advanced training in Australia in laparoscopic colorectal surgery and the treatment of benign colorectal conditions (among others), sponsored by the Ministry of Health. Dr Toh has over 16 years of experience in diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer and other complex colorectal conditions. Her warm and supportive demeanour has earned her many service awards and good patient outcomes over the years.
