Best Colorectal Cancer Treatment in Mumbai

Best Colorectal Cancer Treatment in Mumbai

Colorectal Cancer: Are You at Risk? Symptoms, Screening, Treatment and Prevention

Colorectal cancer cases are increasing at an alarming rate, particularly among young adults. Also known as bowel cancer, it is the third most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Experts believe that a sedentary lifestyle, an unhealthy diet, and a lack of exercise contribute to this worrying trend. Taking proactive measures and getting screened regularly for colorectal cancer can help prevent or detect the disease early, increasing the likelihood of a cure.

If you or a family member is diagnosed with colorectal cancer, know that Fortis Hospital, Mulund, is a leader in providing comprehensive, world-class care for people with this multifactorial disease.

Why Choose Fortis Hospital, Mulund, for Colorectal Cancer Care?

Our doctors have the knowledge and resources to provide leading-edge care, from diagnosis to recovery. At Fortis Hospital, Mulund, you’ll find:

• Comprehensive and compassionate care – 

Specialists from multiple disciplines work together to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for people with cancers of the colon and rectum. Our experts take time to listen to you, learn your goals, and partner with you so you can get back to your life as soon as possible.

• Advanced diagnosis and treatments - 

Our experts use cutting-edge technology to diagnose colorectal cancer early, enabling timely treatment and better patient outcomes. Patients have access to a spectrum of state-of-the-art treatment options, ranging from chemotherapy and radiation therapy to immunotherapy, as well as advanced surgical procedures. Our experts specialise in a range of advanced surgical techniques, including minimally invasive surgery and robotic surgery, that improve a patient’s quality of life by offering numerous benefits.

• Personalised care -

 Because no two patients are entirely alike, our doctors work with you and your family to create a personalised plan to ensure the best outcomes.

This article explains what colorectal cancer is, its signs and symptoms, causes and risk factors, treatment options, as well as the importance of screening and what you can do to prevent it.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that forms in either the cells of the colon (large intestine) or the rectum (the final portion of the large intestine), which are parts of the digestive system. These cancers are also referred to as colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start. Colon cancers and rectal cancers are often grouped together because they share many characteristics, although there are some substantial differences between them. Colorectal cancers, if detected early, are highly treatable, which may even lead to a cure. 

Most colorectal cancers are adenocarcinomas, originating from gland cells that make mucus, which helps stool move through the colon and rectum. Other types include small cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma.

How Does Colorectal Cancer Start and Spread?

Colorectal cancer typically begins as a polyp or an abnormal growth of tissue in the inner lining (mucosa) of the colon or rectum. While polyps are quite common as people age, and most of them are noncancerous, some types can develop into cancer over time. 

Screening tests like colonoscopy may help prevent colorectal cancer by detecting and removing polyps before they turn into cancer. Left undetected or untreated, these cancers that begin in the innermost layer can grow outward through the layers of the wall, and then subsequently spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant parts of the body.

When Should You Start Screening for Colorectal Cancer?

General guidelines recommend that most people should get regular screenings for colorectal cancer, beginning at age 45 and continuing until age 75. Discuss with your doctor when to start screening, how frequently you need to get tested, and which test is best for you, especially if you have risk factors.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer may not cause any noticeable symptoms, especially in the initial stages. When symptoms do appear, they are usually subtle and non-specific, making early detection challenging. As the disease progresses, you may have symptoms.

Common signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

• Changes in bowel habits, such as narrowing of the stools, constipation, and diarrhea, lasting more than a few days
• A feeling that your bowel doesn’t empty fully, even after a bowel movement
• Blood in the stool, making your poop look bright red or dark
• Rectal bleeding
• Abdominal pain and bloating
• Fatigue and weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Appetite loss
• Nausea or vomiting

As colorectal cancer begins to metastasize and spread to other parts of the body, you may experience other symptoms, such as:

• Jaundice – if the cancer has spread to the liver
• Trouble breathing – if the cancer has spread to the lungs

Having these symptoms does not always mean you have colorectal cancer. However, you should see a doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms or anything that concerns you, so the cause can be identified and treated, if required.

What Causes Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer develops when cells lining the colon or rectum change (mutate) or behave abnormally and grow in an uncontrolled way. This abnormal cell growth can lead to polyps, which, in some cases, can eventually become cancerous, if left undetected and untreated. Medical researchers still don’t know why this happens to some people, yet, they do know certain factors may increase a person’s risk of developing precancerous polyps and colorectal cancer.

Who’s at Risk for Colorectal Cancer?

Anyone can get colorectal cancer, but certain factors may raise your chances of developing this condition. These include:

• A personal or family history of adenomatous polyps or colorectal cancer
• Being older – over 50 years old
• Being male
• Being overweight or obese
• Some health conditions like type 2 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
• Having inherited gene changes (mutations) and genetic conditions
• Exposure to radiation, particularly in the abdomen and pelvis area
• Smoking
• Heavy alcohol use
• A diet high in red and processed meats
• Low physical activity

How is Colorectal Cancer Diagnosed?

If you have symptoms that might indicate colorectal cancer, or if your screening test shows abnormalities, your doctor may recommend additional tests and exams, including:

• Physical exam and medical history
• Digital rectal exam
• Stool test
• Blood tests
• Diagnostic colonoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Proctoscopy
• Biopsy
• Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, X-ray, MRI, CT, and PET/CT scans – imaging tests may also help your doctor determine how far the cancer has spread and check if the treatment is working.

How is Colorectal Cancer Treated?

Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the size and the location of the cancer, and other factors, such as the person’s age, general health, and preferences. At Fortis Hospital, Mulund, our multidisciplinary team of experts will discuss all options with you and your family to create a treatment plan that best fits your unique needs. 

You may have only one or a combination of treatments, depending on your specific situation.

For early-stage colorectal cancers – 

You may need only surgery to remove cancerous cells and potentially surrounding lymph nodes. Sometimes, additional treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, may be given after surgery based on the tumor’s genetic and molecular features, to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Surgery remains the cornerstone for colorectal cancer treatment, especially if the tumor has not spread. The specific type and approach of surgery will depend on the tumor’s size and location.

For more advanced colorectal cancers –

 You will likely need a combination of treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy, and surgery, depending on your specific situation and stage. Surgery may be used even when the tumor has spread and cannot be completely removed. In this case, the surgeon will treat the symptoms, such as blockages or pain, rather than cure the cancer itself. 

Sometimes, ablation and embolization may be used to destroy small tumors that have spread to other parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs. These treatments are given when primary cancers in the colon or rectum can be surgically removed.

Can You Prevent Colorectal Cancer?

There’s no definitive way to prevent colorectal cancer, but you can reduce your risk of developing this condition by taking precautionary measures, such as:

• Getting regular colorectal cancer screenings for early detection
• Eating a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while avoiding or limiting intake of red and processed meats
• Drinking alcohol in moderation, if you drink
• Exercising most days of the week
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Not smoking or quitting smoking

Takeaway

Colorectal cancer is a significant global health concern due to its high incidence and mortality rates. This form of cancer starts as precancerous polyps or abnormal growths in the colon or rectum. Colorectal polyps can exist for years without causing any symptoms before potentially transforming into cancer. Regular colorectal screenings, including colonoscopy, can detect polyps, which can be removed before they turn into cancer. Thus, colorectal cancer is often preventable and treatable, when caught early. 

Paying attention to any concerning symptoms and seeking medical help is crucial for an early diagnosis, when treatment is most effective. Early detection combined with newer treatments increases survival rates for patients.

Whether you’re at risk for colorectal cancer or have just been diagnosed, at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, our experts can provide customized strategies for prevention or craft a treatment plan designed to help you achieve the best possible outcome.