Colorectal cancer patient story: Proactive testing can save lives-Hanka’s story

When 70-year-old Hanka Kowalski from Pruszków, a small city in Central Poland, received the results from a simple and non-invasive DNA test, she was stunned—it came back positive for early-stage colorectal cancer. It was news no one wanted to hear, but one that changed her life.  

Despite knowing the importance of regular health checkups, she had long resisted getting screened. This reluctance was concerning, especially given that CRC is a major issue in Poland, where over 18,000 new cases are diagnosed each year, according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

“Yes, I heard about the cancer screening program in my country, but mostly unpleasant things about the colonoscopy,” she recalls. “I was just afraid to go through it and I didn’t feel I needed it, as my colon was in good condition—from my personal feeling, of course. I had never been tested for bowel disease.”

A Surprising Diagnosis and a Second Chance

Hanka’s journey toward early detection began when her sister-in-law, Zosia, who is very health-conscious and concerned about the family’s well-being, highly recommended BGI Genomics COLOTECT® after her own positive experience. Zosia was impressed with the ease and accuracy of this non-invasive DNA test, which can detect colorectal cancer risk through a simple stool sample.

The promise of a pain-free, at-home alternative to traditional screening persuaded Hanka to give it a try. “I never thought it
would be this easy,” she admits. In February 2024, she ordered the test with her son’s help. The sample kit arrived within two days, complete with everything needed to collect and send a sample back for analysis.

Only 10 days later, the results arrived, revealing the presence of early-stage colorectal cancer. “It’s not what anyone expects to
hear, and I was scared,” Hanka confesses. But thanks to the clear guidance from healthcare professionals, she quickly moved forward with a follow-up colonoscopy, which confirmed the diagnosis, revealing a “1 cm sessile polyp, along with hyperplastic polyps and a tubulovillous adenoma with low-grade dysplasia.”

This reinforced the importance of her decision to take the test, highlighting how early detection can prevent the progression of these dangerous lesions. Fortunately, she took action before it was too late.

A Life-Saving Experience, Raising for Advocacy

The subsequent procedure to remove a large polyp meant that chemotherapy was not necessary. Today, Hanka feels healthy and relieved, knowing that early detection played a crucial role in her recovery. Reflecting on the experience, this warm-hearted lady says, “Taking COLOTECT® likely saved my life. I would never have chosen a colonoscopy until I felt severe symptoms, but by then, it might have been too late.”

She passionately advocates for prioritizing health and preventive cancer screening. “In my experience, proactive testing can save lives. Everyone should do it as soon as possible.”

Hanka’s story is a stark reminder of the importance of early detection and how non-invasive tests can help people overcome their fears. “Take control of your health, and don’t be afraid,” she urges others. “It’s better to know early than to wait until it’s too late.”

Today, this resilient woman is back to enjoying life, grateful for the early diagnosis that allowed her to continue living without fear. Her journey is a powerful testament to the impact that early cancer screening can have, especially with innovative solutions such as COLOTECT®. She hopes that sharing her story will inspire others to take that first step toward a healthier future.

Note: This article depicts a real story. To respect the patient’s privacy, we chose not to disclose her identity and used a fictional name. This content has been made available by BGI Genomics for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

About COLOTECT®

COLOTECT® is a non-invasive fecal DNA test developed by BGI Genomics for detecting CRC and precancerous lesions. It uses multiplex methylation-specific PCR (MSP) technology to trace abnormal DNA-methylation biomarkers in CRC from stool samples. It has 88% CRC sensitivity, and for early detection, its sensitivity for advanced adenoma is 46%, which are both superior to conventional fecal tests.  

About BGI Genomics

BGI Genomics, headquartered in Shenzhen, China, is the world's leading integrated solutions provider of precision medicine. Our services cover more than 100 countries and regions, involving more than 2,300 medical institutions. In July 2017, as a subsidiary of BGI Group, BGI Genomics (300676.SZ) was officially listed on the Shenzhen Stock Exchange