Colorectal Cancer

Related Doctors

Overview

Colorectal cancer, commonly referred to as colon cancer or bowel cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. It is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide but is highly treatable if detected early. At Vibhavadi Hospital, we provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for colorectal cancer patients — from early screening to advanced treatments and long-term monitoring.

What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer starts in the lining of the colon or rectum and may spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Most colorectal cancers begin as small, benign polyps that gradually become cancerous over time. Detecting and removing these polyps during a colonoscopy is the most effective way to prevent cancer development.

Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer may not cause symptoms in its early stages. As the disease progresses, patients may experience:

Persistent changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating
Unexplained weight loss
Weakness or fatigue
A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely

These symptoms can also be related to other conditions, but should not be ignored, especially if persistent.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of colorectal cancer is not always known, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease.

Age over 50
Personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise
Diet high in red or processed meats
Obesity
Smoking and heavy alcohol consumption
Type 2 diabetes

Types of Colorectal Cancer

The most common type is adenocarcinoma, which originates in mucus-secreting glands. Other, rarer types include carcinoid tumors, gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), and lymphomas.

Stages of Colorectal Cancer

Stage 0: Cancer is in the innermost lining of the colon or rectum
Stage I: Cancer has grown into the muscle layer
Stage II: Cancer has grown through the wall of the colon or rectum
Stage III: Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs like the liver or lungs

Staging is essential to determine treatment plans and prognosis.

Screening and Diagnosis at Vibhavadi Hospital

Colorectal cancer screening is one of the most effective ways to detect cancer early. At Vibhavadi Hospital, we offer comprehensive screening and diagnostic options.

Colonoscopy: Allows direct visualization and removal of polyps
Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): Detects hidden blood in the stool
CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): A non-invasive imaging test
Biopsy: Tissue sample taken during colonoscopy to confirm diagnosis
Blood tests: Check for anemia or tumor markers like CEA (Carcinoembryonic Antigen)

Treatment Options

At Vibhavadi Hospital, treatment is personalized based on the type, stage, and health condition of the patient. Our cancer specialists work collaboratively to create a patient-centered plan.

Surgery

The most common treatment for early-stage colorectal cancer
Includes removal of part of the colon (colectomy) or rectum (proctectomy)
May require temporary or permanent colostomy in some cases

Chemotherapy

Often used after surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells
May be used before surgery to shrink tumors

Radiation Therapy

Especially used in rectal cancer to reduce recurrence
Can be combined with chemotherapy for better outcomes

Targeted Therapy

Drugs that target specific proteins or genetic mutations in cancer cells
Effective in certain types of advanced colorectal cancers

Immunotherapy

Boosts the body’s immune system to fight cancer
May be used in cancers with high microsatellite instability (MSI-H)

Colorectal Cancer Services at Vibhavadi Hospital

We provide full-spectrum care through an expert team of:

Gastroenterologists
Surgical oncologists
Medical oncologists
Radiologists
Pathologists
Nutritionists and supportive care specialists

Our hospital is equipped with modern endoscopic suites, advanced imaging technology, and multidisciplinary tumor boards that ensure optimal care and outcomes.

Colorectal Cancer Screening Guidelines

Early screening is essential, especially for individuals over 50 or those with risk factors. Guidelines recommend:

Starting screening at age 45–50 for average-risk individuals
Earlier and more frequent screening for high-risk individuals (family history, IBD, etc.)
Colonoscopy every 10 years, or FIT annually

Supportive and Follow-Up Care

At Vibhavadi Hospital, we don’t just treat the disease — we support patients throughout the recovery process. Our services include: