Timely diagnosis of precancerous conditions (screening)

Information Specialists

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common oncological diseases in Latvia, but early diagnosis and preventive screenings significantly increase survival chances and improve quality of life. Colorectal cancer screening is the primary tool to detect the disease at an early stage or to prevent its development. Colorectal cancer screening is state-funded, and screening colonoscopy is available to patients on an accelerated basis—outside the regular waiting list.

What is screening and how does it work?

Screening is intended for healthy individuals aged 50 to 74 years, even if there are no symptoms. The procedure includes:

Performing a fecal immunochemical test (FIT). The patient is provided with a sample kit to collect and submit stool samples to the laboratory. The test is used to detect the presence of hidden blood.
In case of a positive test, the patient is referred for a colonoscopy to thoroughly examine the colon and rectum and diagnose any possible issues.

A positive result on the fecal occult blood test is not a cause for alarm – most patients do not have serious diseases detected. However, a colonoscopy is essential to rule out or confirm cancer or precancerous conditions, such as polyps.

When should the examinations be performed?

Early diagnosis of colorectal cancer:

If you are between 50 and 74 years old (regular screening).
If you notice blood in your stool, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained anemia, regardless of your age – consult your family doctor or a specialist.

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Screening algorithm in Latvia (state-funded test):

Receiving the letter: All residents aged 50 to 74 regularly receive an invitation from the state to participate in the screening.
Collecting the sample kit: Visit your family doctor or the nearest laboratory to receive the test kit.
Submitting the sample: Submit the sample to the laboratory (valid only at the Central Laboratory). The test is covered by the state.
Receiving results: In case of a negative result, a repeat test should be done after 2 years. If the result is positive, you will be referred for a state-funded colonoscopy.

Colonoscopy procedure (state-funded, prioritized):

Procedure preparation: The patient is given instructions regarding diet and bowel cleansing before the procedure – colonoscopy preparation.
Colonoscopy: The procedure is performed by inserting a flexible tube through the rectum to thoroughly examine the colon and rectum. The procedure is safe, and for most patients, it is conducted without complications.
Polyp removal: If polyps are detected, they are removed during the procedure, reducing the risk of cancer development.

Why is it important to participate in screening?

Colorectal cancer develops slowly, often over several years. Colorectal cancer screening not only detects the disease at an early stage but also identifies precancerous conditions that can be removed in time during endoscopy, preventing tumor development. Early colorectal cancer is much easier and more effectively treated. Take advantage of the screening opportunity, which is state-funded.

If you are between 50 and 74 years old, we encourage you to contact your family doctor and undergo the necessary examinations. See the chart and video below.

Take care of your health and participate in colorectal cancer screening!

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