One of the most common types of cancer is Colon Cancer or colorectal cancer which affects both men and women worldwide. Colon cancer happens when cells in the colon develop changes in their DNA, causing them to multiply uncontrollably and form a tumour that can invade and spread to other parts of the body. Often, these cancers begin as non-cancerous growths called polyps that can become malignant over time. The number of cases is rising in India, which demands the necessity of awareness of its symptoms so that a person can seek timely medical treatment.

 

SYMPTOMS

•       Abdominal pain
•       Clueless weight loss
•       Blood in the stool
•       Weakness or fatigue
•       Persistent abdominal discomfort such as gas, cramps, or bloating
•       Changes in bowel movement are very common symptoms in Colon Cancer.

Sometimes, the abdominal pain and other non-specific symptoms mimic early signs of appendicitis, leading to incorrect diagnosis. If one is consistently experiencing these symptoms, seeking medical attention on immediate basis is important. If diagnosed timely, Colon Cancer treatment in Ahmedabad is not only accessible but also highly effective.

IMPORTANCE OF EARLY DIAGNOSIS:

As the cases of Colon Cancer are rising in India, one can never be too careful in noticing and seeking medical attention for any signs of illness or weakness related to abdomen or bowel movements. When the symptoms are caught in the initial stage, it significantly increases survival rates and treatment is often less aggressive and more effective. Early diagnosis, sometimes before it bec omes cancer, can involve removing precancerous polyps during a colonoscopy. 

Colon cancer is often called a silent killer. This is because in its developing stage, colon cancer can have symptoms that are very difficult to take note of. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms like rectal bleeding, pain in abdomen and changes in bowel movement starts to appear more clearly. This time is crucial to consult a doctor for Colon Cancer treatment in Ahmedabad who can provide comprehensive care, including treating the cancer.

 

HOW TO DETECT COLON CANCER TIMELY?

Screening on regular bases can be helpful in detecting colon cancer in its early stage. Even if a person has shown no symptoms of colon cancer, major medical guidelines suggest that screening can be helpful from around the age of 45 or more to be cautious and prevent it from developing unknowingly.

Screening tests

Colonoscopy: It is the most common amongst all screening tests. The entire rectum is examined in this method and abnormal growth or biopsies can be done if needed.

Faecal Immunochemical Test: Commonly known as FIT, can be done by examining the stool to find any sign of colon cancer if present.

CT Colonography: Also known as virtual colonoscopy is performed using low-dose X-rays to create images of the colon and rectum.

Sigmoidoscopy: It is quite similar to a colonoscopy but it examines the lower part of the colon.

 

Imaging tests

If screening tests indicate the presence of colon cancer, a doctor will typically recommend further, more specific diagnostic and imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis and determine the extent of the cancer to plan colon cancer treatment in Ahmedabad accordingly.

CT Scans and MRI Scans: Done to get the detailed reports and identify whether the cancer is spreading to other parts of the body.

Endorectal MRI: Done to determine whether the tumor has invaded nearby organs of the body.

 

TREATMENT

There are various treatment options that doctors explore for Colon Cancer treatment in Ahmedabad. It is based upon the location and stage of the cancer as well as the patient’s overall health. Surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy and radiation therapy to kill cancer cells, and newer techniques like targeted therapy and immunotherapy are considered to treat the cancer.

 

RISK FACTORS

Colon cancer can happen to anyone, but certain people are significantly at a higher risk than others. Factors that put some people at a greater risk of developing it include:

•       Age: The risk of colon cancer increases significantly with age. Most diagnoses are occurring in people over 50 which is why 45 is the recommended screening age.
•       History: Having had colorectal cancer previously or certain types of polyps increases risk of it developing again. A family history of colon cancer also increases the risk because one may inherit genetic predispositions. The risk is higher with a close relative (parent, sibling, child) who was diagnosed at a young age.

• Inflammatory bowel disease: Long-term inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease are associated with increased risk. 
• Diet: High ratio of red meat and low ratio of fibrous food or heavy consumption of alcohol can increase risk.
• Habits: Smoking and consuming or inhaling tobacco might raise your risk of cancer.
• Physical movement: A sedentary lifestyle, not exercising regularly and excess weight may increase chances of cancer.
• Previous radiation: Previous exposure of the abdomen to radiation therapy can increase risk. 

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

By changing eating habits and following a healthier lifestyle, one can lower the risk of Colon Cancer. Include consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains for a high fibre diet, maintain a healthy weight by engaging in regular physical activity, quit smoking and limit red-meat and alcohol consumption if applicable. 

It is also crucial to get regular colon cancer screenings especially for those who have a family history of this disease or are around the age of 45.

COMMUNITY AWARENESS AND PREVENTIVE EFFORTS

In Ahmedabad, increasing awareness about colon cancer is becoming a public health priority. Various hospitals, NGOs, and health organizations are actively organizing awareness camps, free screening programs, and educational workshops to encourage early detection. Government health departments also collaborate with private healthcare providers to promote colon cancer screening under preventive health check-up packages. Urban health centres and local hospitals for Colon Cancer treatment in Ahmedabad are now equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, making colonoscopy and imaging more accessible to residents.

Public health campaigns in schools, offices, and community centres, social media initiatives led by doctors and cancer survivors also play a crucial role in breaking myths surrounding colon cancer and motivating people to undergo timely screenings. Furthermore, several hospitals in Ahmedabad offer nutritional counselling and psychological support for patients and families, ensuring holistic care throughout treatment and recovery.

Raising awareness through education, accessibility, and community participation can substantially reduce colon cancer cases in Ahmedabad. By combining medical expertise with preventive lifestyle changes, we can move toward a healthier, cancer-aware future.