Make regular colorectal cancer screenings an essential part of your healthcare routine
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide and the second most common in Hungary, although it can be detected early and prevented effectively through screening. A colonoscopy is a powerful tool for identifying and removing malignant tumors, preventing serious issues like colon or rectal cancer.
If you’re over 50, it’s a great idea to schedule colorectal cancer screenings every five years. If there’s a family history of colorectal cancer, start screenings earlier or have them more frequently. Taking these proactive steps can make a significant difference in your health!
How is colonoscopy done, and what is it used for?
A colonoscopy is a procedure that involves carefully examining the inner lining of the rectum using a flexible tube with a high-resolution camera, called a colonoscope.
Colonoscopy provides an opportunity to detect polyps that can develop into tumors and remove them if necessary. As part of a gastroenterological examination, it can also identify colon diseases (ulcers, tumors, inflammation, and other disorders) based on certain symptoms (such as constipation, abdominal pain, and bleeding).
The colonoscopy is carried out under anesthesia, so it is entirely painless.
The colorectal cancer screening process at FirstMed:
The colorectal screening process takes about 1-2 hours from check-in to check-out, and includes the following steps:
- Preliminary anesthesiology consultation: You will have an anesthesiology consultation right before the colonoscopy.
- Anesthesia is administered to avoid discomfort during the colonoscopy exam.
- Endoscopic exam: Our gastroenterologist gently inserts an endoscope into the rectum and examines the colon for abnormalities.
- Tissue sample: During the procedure, a tissue sample (biopsy) may be taken for laboratory testing, or polyps may be removed.
- Rest: After the exam, we will wake you up, and then you will rest in a private room until the anesthesia wears off.
- Going home: You can go home only with an escort (if possible by car).
- Receive the result: We will forward the tissue sample for evaluation and email you the result within 10 days of your appointment.
Where colonoscopy screening happens – explore our Endoscopy Center
Colorectal cancer screenings are conducted at our modern Endoscopy Center. This specialized department is equipped with advanced technology and a comfortable environment for endoscopy and colonoscopy procedures, ensuring you receive high-quality care.
In a private room, next to the exam room, our patients can comfortably rest while the anesthesia wears off.
Have a complete picture of your gastrointestinal health, get a colonoscopy and endoscopy at the same appointment
Evaluating your upper and lower gastrointestinal tract in one single procedure enhance the effectiveness of gastrointestinal health care. Performing colonoscopy and endoscopy at the same appointment not only simplifies the screening process but also improves the chances of preventing severe conditions, helping to improve your overall health.
- Comprehensive screening: The combination of endoscopy and colonoscopy is a key method for detecting upper and lower alimentary tract and intestinal abnormalities, allowing a thorough examination of the entire digestive tract.
- Cancer prevention and effective treatment: Conditions such as ulcers, polyps, and inflammatory bowel disease can be more effectively identified, allowing early diagnosis and treatment.
- Convenience: By having both examinations in one visit, you can skip the hassle of scheduling checkups at different times and lessen the anxiety associated with the examinations.
- Favorable price: Have a complete gastrointestinal tract examination at a reduced, combined price.
Get both a colonoscopy and an endoscopy in a single convenient appointment for a comprehensive evaluation of your digestive system and ensure you’re on the path to wellness. Don’t wait—prioritize your health today!
Why choose FirstMed for your colorectal cancer screening?
We understand that you value clear communication, a safe and trustworthy checkup, a comfortable atmosphere, and timely, accurate results. At FirstMed, we aim to provide you with thorough care and professionalism at every stage of your screening process.
Our Endoscopy Center operates as a specialized department at the highest professional standards. Its modern equipment ensures the most accurate results.
Central location in Budapest near Széll Kálmán tér metro station, with good access by public transportation and free parking for our patients.
We speak the same language: English communication ensures you understand everything from booking appointments to preparing for procedures and receiving results.
With decades of experience, FirstMed’s professional endoscopic team ensures your comfort and safety during colonoscopy examination, as reflected by our patients’ testimonials.
You can schedule convenient appointments for examinations on selected weekday afternoons or Saturdays to have your screening at a time that works for you.
Direct billing to insurance: For private health insurance holders, we may bill your insurer directly for colonoscopy screening if your insurance plan covers this service.
Discover what our patients have experienced
Your health is important to us, and we are committed to providing high level care. Read about our patients’ experiences of their screenings at our Endoscopy Center.
Meet our professional team
Our highly trained, dedicated professionals will ensure that the colonoscopy procedures are performed with minimal discomfort and in the safest possible way.
Dr. Péter Kokas, PhD
Gastroenterologist, endoscopic procedures
Dr. Péter Lukovich, PhD
Gastroenterologist, endoscopic procedures
Dr. Katalin Darvas, Prof. emeritus
Anesthesiologist
Dr. Zsuzsanna Ulakcsai
Anesthesiologist
The price of the colorectal cancer screening procedure
Medical consultation (optional)
(gastroenterology)
from HUF 42,000
Colonoscopy exam
(with anesthesia)
from HUF 169,000
Colonoscopy and gastroscopy exam
(with anesthesia)
from HUF 245,000
The screening begins with a specialist consultation, which is not included in the colonoscopy price. Regular clinic patients with a FirstMed Plan or Value Card can receive the consultation and examination with special conditions.
As part of our promotion, we are now offering a free FirstMed Value Card valid for one year to new patients who pay for a colonoscopy and/or gastroscopy exam on the spot. This card will enable you to benefit from Colorectal Screening and other FirstMed services at a special price.
Maximise the benefits of your private health insurance
If your private health insurance plan covers colorectal screening or colonoscopy examinations, we can bill the service fees to your insurer directly. Please indicate on the inquiry form below whether you have insurance, so we can verify if we can accept your plan.
Frequently asked questions about colorectal cancer screening:
Why should you get colorectal screening regularly?
Screening can detect the initial stage (e.g., polyps) when there are no symptoms, but it can later develop into a malignant tumor. Starting at age 50, regular colorectal screening with colonoscopy every 5 years is crucial as a preventive step, even if you have no symptoms. More frequent screenings might be necessary if you have a family history of colon cancer.
When should you request a colonoscopy exam?
If you experience symptoms such as digestive issues, bloody stools, or pain, discuss the possibility of a colonoscopy screening with your doctor.
Detecting these symptoms can often signal an advanced stage when the disease becomes difficult or impossible to cure. The earlier the lesion is identified, the better the chances of a cure. Therefore, regular screenings are the most effective way to prevent serious complications.
Do I need a referral for a colonoscopy?
Referrals aren’t necessary, but it’s helpful to schedule an initial check-up with your GP if you’re experiencing symptoms that might need a colonoscopy.
For the consultation, you need to bring a medical report from an internist or family doctor dated within the last 40 days (Hypertonia, Diabetes, Anticoagulants) to review the use of blood-thinning medications. If you do not have one, please let us know, and we will help you get it at our clinic before your Colorectal Screening.
When can I have a colon screening appointment?
We offer preliminary consultations and colonoscopy procedures in the afternoon or early evening on select weekdays, with Saturday appointments also available! This flexibility means you can prioritize your health without the stress of taking time off work.
How can I book appointment for colorectal cancer screening?
The easiest way to request an appointment is to fill in the form below. We will contact you and respond within one working day.
What are polyps and why are they important to remove?
Colon and rectal polyps are harmless clumps of cells that develop on the inner lining of the colon. If left untreated, they can develop into colon and rectal cancer.
80% of colorectal cancers develop from polyps. Removing polyps can significantly reduce the risk of colon cancer, which is why regular colonoscopy is a key preventive measure for people over 50.
What preparations are needed for a colonoscopy?
Before a colonoscopy, it is essential to undergo a thorough bowel cleansing. This process should be carried out at home, both the day prior and on the day of your scheduled procedure, utilizing bowel-cleansing medication. You are allowed to consume fluids to maintain your energy levels; therefore, complete fasting is not required.
We will provide you with all necessary information in English during the preliminary consultation and via email prior to the examination.
How is colorectal cancer screening done?
Colorectal cancer screening starts with a gastroenterology consultation, where the medical history and any complaints are reviewed.
We will then schedule an appointment with you for a colonoscopy exam, which will occur at a later date. The colonoscopy is performed under general anaesthesia, during a one-hour visit.
After the colonoscopy, you will wait for the anaesthesia to wear off in a comfortable private room next to the examination room. Our doctor will inform you of the results and possible treatment options after the examination.
As the procedure is performed under general anaesthesia, you must have someone with you to accompany you home, which will require using a car.
Is it possible to have colonoscopy without anaesthesia?
A colonoscopy is typically performed under anesthesia, but it is also possible to have an awake procedure through special arrangements. Before and after the anesthesia, highly trained professionals will ensure your safety. Anesthesia also provides complete sedation to prevent discomfort during the procedure.
Prioritise your health and book a colonoscopy appointment if you are over 50, or earlier if you have a family history of colorectal cancer.
Early detection is the key to avoiding colon cancer. Get screened at FirstMed, where you’ll find the latest technology and a professional team. Our team is ready to provide expert care and support throughout the entire examination process.
