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50+? Time for a colonoscopy!

In Switzerland, more than 4,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. If detected early, the chances of recovery are good. But too few people undergo the necessary preventive screenings.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer in Switzerland. According to statistics, about 1,700 people die from it each year in Switzerland. “It doesn’t have to be that way. Because in the vast majority of cases, colorectal cancer is curable if detected early,” says Prof. Dr. med. Dr. phil. Gerhard Rogler. Gerhard Rogler is the director of the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at the USZ. “With a good preventive care program, we could even prevent two-thirds of these cases,” he adds.

A colonoscopy is the best way to screen for cancer

During a colonoscopy, a thin tube (endoscope) is inserted into the large intestine through the anus. A camera and a light are attached to the tip of the endoscope. This makes it possible to detect early stages of colorectal cancer and remove them immediately. The Cancer League recommends a colonoscopy for people aged 50 and older, as age is the biggest risk factor. However, according to estimates, only about 15 percent of people over 50 follow this recommendation, even though health insurance covers the cost of the screening from that age until their 70th birthday. According to Gerhard Rogler, further information and awareness campaigns are needed. This calls for action not only from primary care physicians and specialists, but also from policymakers and health insurance companies regarding the issue of cost coverage. Gerhard Rogler is convinced: “Preventive care programs may involve additional costs in the short term, but in the long term, they can help avoid expensive surgeries and chemotherapy.”

With a high-quality colonoscopy, the detection rate is high; polyps and tumors are reliably detected. “This can save lives,” says Gerhard Rogler. “After my lecture, a student convinced her parents to have a colonoscopy. A tumor was discovered in her father during the procedure. He has since undergone successful surgery.”

Afraid of a colonoscopy? Here's how it works:

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Minimally invasive intestinal surgery…

Various treatment options are available for colorectal cancer patients: In addition to chemotherapy and radiation therapy, surgery plays an important role. Since the 1990s, intestinal surgeries have been performed using minimally invasive techniques. Instead of making an incision in the abdominal wall, the procedure is performed through small holes in the abdominal wall. This procedure, known as laparoscopy, is less stressful for patients. However, the goals of colorectal cancer surgery have remained the same. First, the affected tissue and the affected lymphatic vessels must be completely removed. Second, the functions of the intestines, bladder, and reproductive system should be preserved. “We’ve made great progress in this area,” explains Prof. Dr. med. Matthias Turina. He is a senior physician in the Department of Visceral Surgery at the USZ. “The chances of a complete cure for early-stage colon cancer are 90 percent today.”

…and with robots

For several years now, surgeries have been performed at the USZ using the Da Vinci robotic surgical system. As with conventional laparoscopy, the procedure is performed through small incisions in the abdominal wall. Unlike in a “normal” surgery, however, the surgeon does not stand next to the patient but sits at a console and operates the Da Vinci robot.

Matthias Turina is convinced of this method. He performs about 85 colorectal cancer surgeries each year. Since 2018, most of them have been performed using the surgical robot. “Robot-assisted surgeries are a fascinating technology,” he says. Da Vinci’s stable camera work and sharp image would enable even more precise work. “It’s like diving into the abdominal cavity.” This is important because even a few millimeters can make or break the success of a surgery. “The results we’ve seen so far with Da Vinci are very satisfactory,” adds the attending physician. The results are also better than those of conventional procedures in terms of preserving bladder and sexual function.

The team’s experience is crucial

However, the treatment of colorectal cancer remains a complex matter. Matthias Turina emphasizes how important the treatment team’s experience is. As a certified colorectal cancer center, the USZ has the necessary expertise and meets all applicable quality standards.

But prevention is even better than treatment: Gerhard Rogler recommends regular exercise and a diet low in meat and high in fiber. “This can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by a third,” he explains.

When Should You See a Doctor?

The Cancer League recommends that everyone age 50 and older undergo a colonoscopy. From age 50 to 69, the cost of the exam is covered by health insurance. For individuals at increased risk (such as those with a parent or sibling who has had colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps, a history of colorectal polyps, or chronic inflammatory bowel disease), earlier screening for colorectal cancer is recommended.

Unfortunately, colorectal cancer often does not cause any symptoms. The first noticeable signs that may indicate a tumor are usually not very typical. If symptoms occur, they include blood in the stool, irregular bowel movements (diarrhea alternating with constipation), pain, and weight loss. If you experience symptoms like these, it is essential to undergo a colonoscopy.

Responsible Department

Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Last updated on September 03, 2026

First published on February 22, 2024

Content: USZ editorial team