Bowel Cancer Screening & Prevention in Christchurch
Bowel cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in Aotearoa, affecting 1 in 18 Kiwis. Yet, it is also one of the most preventable, with a 90% cure rate when detected early.
A colonoscopy for bowel cancer screening remains the gold standard for early detection and prevention. Our focus is on colorectal cancer prevention by identifying and removing polyps before they become a threat.
3000+
Bowel cancer affects over 3,000 Kiwis every year; with 1,200 deaths annually, it claims as many lives as breast and prostate cancer combined.
350+
You are never too young to take action. Over 350 Kiwis under 50 are diagnosed with bowel cancer every year, and rates in this age group are rising.
1 in 18
Bowel cancer touches many of our families, with an estimated 1 in 18 Kiwis developing the disease during their lifetime.
Early Detection & Prevention of Bowel Cancer
Symptoms That May Require Investigation
Consider further evaluation if you have any of the following symptoms:
National Bowel Screening Programme (NZ)
From 30 September 2026, New Zealand will begin lowering the starting age for the free National Bowel Screening Programme from 58 to 56. The change will be introduced progressively, and timing may vary by region. Newly eligible people will be contacted when screening becomes available for their age group in their area, so turning 56 does not necessarily mean a screening kit will arrive immediately. The free home test is intended for people without symptoms; if you have bowel symptoms or a significant family history of bowel cancer, seek medical advice rather than waiting for a screening invitation.
⇢ Click here to see if you are eligible for the National Bowel Screening Programme
Private Colonoscopy in Christchurch
If you are experiencing symptoms or have a family history, you do not have to wait.
As a bowel cancer screening specialist in Christchurch, Dr Mehul Lamba provides expert diagnostic care with minimal wait times. Procedures are performed at the Southern Endoscopy Centre, a state-of-the-art facility located on the Southern Cross Hospital Campus, ensuring you receive the highest standard of clinical safety and comfort.
WE OFFER:
Rapid Access: Avoid long public wait-lists. We offer fast-tracked appointments to ensure your examination is performed expeditiously.
Expert Care: Your procedure is performed by an expert, NZ-accredited bowel screening endoscopist, ensuring the highest standards.
Insurance & Self-funded options: We are an affiliated provider with Southern Cross, nib and work with all major NZ insurers
Self-Funded Colonoscopy in Christchurch
For those without health insurance, we offer a transparent, fixed-price pathway.
All-Inclusive Quotes: We provide clear, upfront pricing that covers the specialist fee, facility costs, and sedation.
No GP Referral Needed: While a referral is helpful, you can contact us directly to discuss your symptoms and suitability for a self-funded procedure.
Fast-Tracked Peace of Mind: Don't wait months for an appointment; self-funding allows you to take control of your health timeline immediately.
We are an Affiliated Provider with Southern Cross and a nib First Choice Provider.
GET IN TOUCH
Ask for Melissa
P. (03) 968 3140
E. info@canterburyendoscopy.co.nz
CLINIC
Level 2, 21 Caledonian Rd, St Albans, Christchurch 8014
