Want to take proactive steps to look after your colon health? Eligible Singaporeans can take advantage of free colorectal cancer screenings in Singapore this year. Some societies are offering FIT kits at no charge for eligible men and women aged 50 and above. The primary test for colon cancer is the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), an at-home stool sample kit that detects hidden blood potentially indicating polyps or early cancer. The Healthier SG initiative distributes FIT kits via health providers for eligible citizens. Here’s how it works.
Who is eligible for these colon cancer screenings?
Singaporeans aged 50 and above, who are Pioneer Generation cardholders and Public Assistance cardholders, can access free colon cancer screenings in 2026. The entire cancer stool test kits are available at all islandwide Community Assist Scheme (CHAS) clinics.
Eligible patients must collect two-day stool samples and return them to the clinic for lab processing. Meanwhile, results typically take around two weeks and abnormal FIT results trigger an automatic follow-up.
Additionally, the FIT screening is almost free for Merdeka Generation or CHAS Blue/Orange cardholders. Instead, they pay just $2 per visit, while CHAS Green or other Eligible Singapore Citizens pay just $5. Learn more here.
Here are the main symptoms of colon cancer:
- changes in bowel habits
- rectal bleeding
- abdominal pain or discomfort
- unexplained weight loss
- weakness or tiredness
Did you know colorectal cancer ranks as Singapore’s second-leading cancer? In fact, there has been around 16% of cases in men and 13% in women from 2018 to 2022—but early detection via FIT screenings has boosted survival rates dramatically.
SEE MORE: Eligible Women In Singapore Can Book Free Cancer Screenings Until March 31