Robert, a 52-year-old father in Budapest, was hesitant about colorectal screening due to being uneasy about the process and not experiencing any issues. After over a year of delay, he finally scheduled a colonoscopy following encouragement from his wife and reminders from his GP. At the screening, the doctor found a small, early-stage tumour that hadn’t spread. It was quickly removed, allowing him to avoid chemotherapy. He soon returned to work, feeling healthy and grateful for the timely examination. Early detection saved his life and renewed his future.
Colorectal cancer is a significant global health concern and the third most common cancer worldwide, although early detection through regular colorectal screening is a powerful tool in combating this disease. In this article, our experts highlight the importance of screening and compare the processes within the public healthcare system and at a private clinic like FirstMed in Budapest.
Why Regular Colorectal Screening Matters
Early detection can save your life!
Colorectal cancer often starts as polyps, which can develop into cancer over the years. Detecting and removing these polyps early can prevent cancer formation. This significantly increases survival chances, because the disease is much more treatable before symptoms appear, as FirstMed gastroenterologists Dr. Péter Lukovich and Dr. Péter Kokas point out. Research confirms that colonoscopies lead to an approximately 70% reduction in new colorectal cancer cases and nearly a 90% lower risk of death from the disease.
Screening Recommendations
Colorectal cancer occurrence is most common after 40, with the highest incidence between 50 and 70, and in Europe and Hungary. While it affects more men, it is also highly prevalent in women. Screening is strongly recommended for every person aged 45 and every 5 years.
Our experts highlight that regular colorectal screening is vital for those 50 or older, those with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, and individuals with inflammatory bowel disease or hereditary conditions.
Colorectal Screening Options
Colonoscopy
Colonoscopy is the most efficient screening method, as it allows gastroenterologists to examine the entire colon directly with a tool fitted with a high-resolution camera to detect polyps, cancer, and other abnormalities. In case any abnormalities are detected, immediate intervention is possible by removing precancerous polyps during the procedure.
Preparation and aftercare
Colonoscopy requires only one day of preparation, involving drinking fluids, and doesn’t need complete fasting. It is necessary to arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure, as you may feel drowsy. Therefore, it’s practical to choose a provider that is easily accessible.
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)
This initial lab test checks stool samples for hidden blood. Unfortunately, it is not as accurate as a colonoscopy, resulting in more false negatives and false positive results.
Colorectal Screening in Hungary
The public healthcare system
Access to colorectal screening is free of charge for those who have public health insurance in Hungary. The public healthcare system follows a two-step approach, regulated by the National Public Health Centre (NNK):
- Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Three stool samples are evaluated, and colonoscopy is recommended only if at least two of the samples are positive. A repeated test is advised after six months if only one is positive.
- Colonoscopy: In the public system, colonoscopies are available only by referral from your GP after a positive FIT result (at least two positive samples).
Public colorectal screening considerations
- Process Length: Accessing a colonoscopy in public healthcare in Budapest can take 3 to 6 months (from the initial GP visit), or even a year if a repeat FIT test is needed.
- Availability: Colonoscopy can only be performed by a limited number of providers in the public service, which means you may have to travel further away from home for screening or wait for an appointment for a longer time.
- Waiting Times: High patient volumes often lead to long waiting times, potentially delaying early detection and treatment.
Colorectal screening in private healthcare
Private healthcare is convenient for those unfamiliar with or outside the Hungarian public healthcare system. Although the private service is paid for, clinics like FirstMed offer direct availability to colonoscopy and provide personalized care with additional reassurance and comfort.
Key features of private healthcare screening
- Anesthesia and Comfort: Private clinics may offer general anesthesia for a more comfortable procedure. The examination under anaesthesia is painless and does not cause discomfort, which is confirmed by our patients’ feedback.
- Experience and Safety: Clinics with experienced endoscopy teams provide better procedural safety and patient care.
- Clear Communication: English communication simplifies the process for non-Hungarian speakers.
- Private Insurance Compatibility: Private clinics may offer direct billing insurance options.
- Patient Feedback: Positive reviews indicate better service quality and patient satisfaction.
Comparison of public and private colorectal screening
| Feature | Public Healthcare System | Private Care (with FirstMed) |
|---|---|---|
| Waiting time (for colonoscopy) | 3-12 months | Shorter waiting times |
| Initial exam | Fecal Immlunochemical Test (FIT) | Generally not required for colonoscopy |
| Colonoscopy availability | By referral after a positive FIT result | Direct access to colonoscopy |
| Anesthesia and comfort | Varies | General aneshthesia for comfort. |
| Appointments | Limited availability | Weekday afternoon and some Saturdays |
| Location | Limited availability in Budapest | Central location in Budapest |
| Communication | Primarily Hungarian | Full-service English communication |
| Experience and safety | Varies | Experienced endoscopy team, modern exam facilities. |
| Insurance compatibility | Free with public health insurance | Direct billing options with private insurance |
Summary
Choosing between public and private healthcare for screening depends on individual needs, preferences, and time constraints. Colonoscopy is the most effective colorectal cancer screening option, enabling direct detection and removal of potentially harmful polyps and abnormalities. Early detection can significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and death. Private clinics like FirstMed offer direct access to colonoscopies, shorter waiting times, additional comfort, and communication benefits.
Take a proactive step for your health and schedule your colorectal screening now.