Early detection best weapon against colon cancer: City doc
Colon cancer is rising rapidly in the country, especially among younger adults. Manav Mander talks to Dr Sanjamjot Singh, Gastrointestinal and Hepato-pancreato-biliary surgeon, SPS Hospitals, about changing trends, warning signs, screening guidelines and how timely treatment can save lives.
What is colon cancer and why are we seeing more cases today?
Colon cancer arises from abnormal growth of cells in the large intestine. Most begin as polyps — small, benign growths that can turn cancerous over years. Earlier, colon cancer used to be seen mostly after 60 years of age, but now cases below 45 are increasing, largely due to sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, obesity, smoking, alcohol and low fibre intake. Awareness has improved, so more people are coming early, but many still ignore initial symptoms.
What are early warning signs to never ignore?
Colon cancer often begins silently, which is why screening is crucial. However, the following symptoms must not be ignored:
Change in bowel habits (loose stools or constipation lasting >2 weeks); blood in stool or black, tarry stool; unexplained weight loss; persistent abdominal pain or bloating; unexplained anaemia and fatigue; a feeling of incomplete evacuation.
Even young adults with these symptoms should be evaluated immediately.
What tests are used to diagnose colon cancer?
Diagnosis starts with a colonoscopy, which allows direct visualization of the colon and removal of polyps. Biopsy confirms the stage of cancer. CT scan, MRI, PET-CT and blood tests like CEA help in staging and planning treatment. Early detection can prevent major surgeries and improve cure rates dramatically.
What are available treatment options?
Treatment depends on the stage and location of the cancer:
Early-stage cancer: Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic/robotic) can remove the tumour with excellent long-term results.
Locally advanced cancer: May require chemotherapy before surgery to shrink the tumour.
Advanced/metastatic cancer: Targeted therapy, immunotherapy and systemic chemotherapy are used, often improving survival significantly.
Polyps and pre-cancerous lesions: Can be removed endoscopically, preventing cancer development.
Multidisciplinary care involving GI surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and pathologists ensures best outcomes.
Is it preventable?
A large percentage is preventable. Lifestyle changes play a huge role:
Eating high-fibre foods — fruits, vegetables, whole grains; avoiding processed and red meats; maintaining healthy body weight; avoiding tobacco and limiting alcohol; exercising regularly
People with a family history should be extra cautious.
When should someone start screening?
For average-risk individuals, screening should begin at 45 years. For high-risk groups, screening starts earlier:
Family history of colon cancer or polyps; genetic syndromes (Lynch syndrome, FAP); long-standing inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s); screening options include colonoscopy, stool occult blood test (FOBT), stool DNA test, and CT colonography. Colonoscopy remains the gold standard.
What is survival rate if it is detected early?
If detected in Stage I, survival exceeds 90%. Stage II also has very good outcomes. Once cancer spreads to lymph nodes (Stage III) or distant organs (Stage IV), prognosis decreases, but modern treatments have significantly improved long-term survival. Early detection reduces the need for chemotherapy and major surgery.
What lifestyle advice do you give to people recovering from colon cancer?
Patients should follow a balanced diet rich in fibre, stay physically active, avoid smoking and alcohol, and maintain a healthy body weight. Long-term follow-up with blood tests, imaging and colonoscopies is essential to detect any recurrence early. Psychological support is also important, as cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally draining.
What is your message?
Colon cancer is treatable and often preventable. Do not ignore symptoms. Do not delay screening. A simple colonoscopy can save your life. With awareness, timely screening and modern treatment, colon cancer outcomes today are better than ever.
