12 cancer screening tests India doctors recommend

3. Colorectal cancer screening: FIT and colonoscopy

Colorectal cancer screening is increasingly recommended where incidence is rising. The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a non-invasive stool test that checks for hidden blood and is often used as a first-line screen. A positive FIT usually leads to a diagnostic colonoscopy, which examines the colon directly and can remove polyps during the same procedure. Many doctors advise starting screening around age 45–50 for average-risk adults, earlier if there’s a family history. In India, FIT kits can cost about ₹300–1,000 from private labs, while colonoscopies in private hospitals typically range from ₹5,000–20,000 depending on sedation and facility; public hospital prices are lower or subsidised.