Colorectal Cancer

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, both parts of the large intestine and the digestive system. It typically starts as small, noncancerous (benign) polyps that form on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Over time, some of these polyps can become cancerous.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common and preventable cancers when detected early through screening.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone can develop colorectal cancer, but some factors increase the risk:

• Age over 50 (though rates are rising in younger people)
• Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
• Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
• Sedentary lifestyle and poor diet
• Smoking and heavy alcohol use
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Certain inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)

Signs and Symptoms

Early colorectal cancer often causes no symptoms, which is why screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

• A persistent change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of stool)
• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
• Abdominal discomfort or cramping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Fatigue or weakness
• A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely
• Anemia (low red blood cell count)

If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

Diagnosis

Colorectal cancer is diagnosed using a combination of tests and procedures:

• Colonoscopy: The most reliable method to view the entire colon and remove or biopsy polyps
• Stool tests: Detect blood or abnormal DNA in the stool
• CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): Uses imaging to examine the colon
• Biopsy: Tissue sample taken during colonoscopy to confirm cancer
• Blood tests: These include tests for anemia or tumor markers like CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen)
• Imaging scans: CT, MRI, or PET scans to assess cancer spread (staging)

Stages of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is typically classified into five stages (0–IV):

• Stage 0: Cancer is in the innermost lining (in situ)
• Stage I: Grown into the inner layers of the colon/rectum but not beyond
• Stage II: Spread through the muscle wall
• Stage III: Spread to nearby lymph nodes
• Stage IV: Spread to distant organs (like the liver or lungs)

Staging helps determine the best treatment options.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health.

1. Surgery

• Polypectomy for very early cancers during colonoscopy
• Colectomy to remove part or all of the colon
• Colostomy or ileostomy (in some cases) for waste diversion
• Rectal resection for cancers in the rectum

2. Chemotherapy

Used to kill cancer cells or prevent recurrence. Often used after surgery for stages II–IV.

3. Radiation Therapy

Mainly used for rectal cancer, often combined with chemotherapy.

4. Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy

For advanced cancers, these treatments target specific genetic mutations or boost the immune system to fight cancer.

5. Palliative Care

In advanced stages, palliative care focuses on symptom relief and quality of life.

Prevention and Screening

Colorectal cancer is highly preventable through routine screening and lifestyle changes.

Screening options include:

• Colonoscopy (recommended every 10 years from age 45–50)
• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical test (FIT) yearly
• Stool DNA test (e.g., Cologuard) every 3 years
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years

Prevention tips:

• Eat a diet high in fiber, fruits, and vegetables
• Limit red and processed meats
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol
• Get screened as recommended

Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Colorectal Cancer Care?

Aster Hospitals offers comprehensive and compassionate care for colorectal cancer through a multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, oncologists, colorectal surgeons, radiologists, and nutritionists. Our advanced diagnostic tools, including colonoscopy and imaging, enable early and accurate detection. We specialize in minimally invasive and robotic colorectal surgeries, ensuring precise treatment with quicker recovery. Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan, which may include genetic counseling, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy. In addition to palliative and supportive care services, we also provide preventive health packages and screening programs to promote early detection and long-term wellness.