BUPA Bowel Health Assessment
Every year 35,000* people are diagnosed with bowel cancer and each year over 16,000* people die from the disease in the UK. But early detection can avoid this.
At BUPA, we are continuously looking to identify new ways to help our customers live longer healthier lives and help them feel more reassured about their health. We know that bowel cancer is a serious problem, so we want to do all we can to find it early. That's why we have launched the BUPA Bowel Health Assessment, which includes a virtual colonoscopy.
Overview of the bowel health assessment
Virtual colonoscopy is a new technique that allows doctors to look inside the large bowel (colon) to detect polyps and cancers using a CT scanner. Polyps are small growths in the colon that may become cancerous if they are not removed. Through a CT scan, multi dimensional images allow the radiologist to see the inside of the bowel clearly, and detect any abnormalities that need treating.
Often early bowel cancer has no symptoms, though it is at this stage that treatment can be most effective. The CT scan, which produces a virtual colonoscopy, allows the detection of these early changes, maximising your chance of a cure from the disease.
The virtual colonoscopy will need to be performed first at a Lifescan Centre. You'll have a consultation with a BUPA doctor to discuss your results. The consultation will take place at your nearest BUPA Wellness Centre.
BUPA Classic, Premier or Later Life Health Assessment with virtual colonoscopy
This provides all the benefits of a Classic, Premier or Later Life Health Assessment with the addition of a virtual colonoscopy for those who are concerned about the risk of bowel cancer. The virtual colonoscopy will need to be performed first to allow time for the results to reach your BUPA doctor. You will be able to discuss all your test results with a BUPA doctor on the day you attend your BUPA Health Assessment.
How is a virtual colonoscopy done?
You will be given a laxative to take the day before the scan to ensure the bowel is clean. On the day of your visit, you will be taken to the scanning room and lie on a couch, where we will introduce carbon dioxide into your bowel to inflate it slightly to ensure clear images are captured. A CT scan will then be performed whilst you lie comfortably on your back and then on your stomach. The total time required for the procedure is approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Because sedation is not required, you will be free to leave the CT suite immediately without the need for observation or recovery and resume normal activities such as eat, work or drive without a delay. A specialist will analyse the CT data to detect colon polyps or cancers, and will send the results to your BUPA Wellness centre ready for your health assessment.
Is it painful?
No. We use carbon dioxide to inflate your bowel. The carbon dioxide is easily absorbed by the body which makes any discomfort less likely.
Who is the test suitable for?
Ideally everyone over the age of 45 years and people with an increased risk of colon cancer should be screened for colon cancer every five years.
What do I need to do to prepare for a virtual colonoscopy?
Two days before your visit, you will have to prepare the large bowel by following a special diet and taking a laxative the day before the scan.
How much does it cost and how do I book?
Price
£500 when purchased with a BUPA Classic, Premier or Later Life Health Assessment or as an assessment on its own.
How to book
For more information or to book, call free on 0845 600 3458 Monday to Friday between 8am and 6pm. The BUPA Bowel Health Assessment is currently available in Glasgow, Birmingham and Bristol.
For further information on bowel cancer and virtual colonoscopy, please read our BUPA health factsheet, Bowel cancer.
*Cancer Research 2007
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