Endoscopy

Bowel Screening Programme

What is a

Bowel Cancer Screening & Surveillance

Bowel screening is designed for individuals who may not have obvious symptoms or a known family history. The goal is to detect very early-stage cancer or polyps when they are significantly easier to treat and cure. We encourage all New Zealanders to remain vigilant regarding bowel symptoms and risk factors.

About this procedure

This involves a comprehensive review of your risk profile followed by a diagnostic colonoscopy if required. If polyps or early-stage concerns are identified, we arrange ongoing regular surveillance to ensure long-term health and peace of mind.

Clinical Note: If you are experiencing symptoms such as rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or a change in bowel habits, we recommend consulting your GP for an immediate referral to our specialists.

Recovery timeline

Non-invasive assessments require no downtime. If screening leads to a colonoscopy, the standard recovery timeline applies.

Links to other procedures

Bowel Screening Programme

Colonoscopy (Large Bowel Examination)

A colonoscopy is a procedure used to examine the internal lining of the large bowel. It is primarily used to investigate suspected abnormalities, such as changes in bowel habits or bleeding, and for the surveillance of patients with a history of polyps, cancer, or a relevant family history.

Gastroscopy (Upper GI Endoscopy)

A gastroscopy is a procedure that enables your specialist to see inside your upper gastrointestinal tract—specifically the oesophagus, stomach, and duodenum. Unlike X-rays, which take external photographs, endoscopy allows for direct visualisation of the internal surfaces, providing significantly more detail and diagnostic accuracy.