What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as polyps that become malignant over time. Screening can detect precancerous changes early, when treatment is most effective.
Risk Factors
- Family history or inherited syndromes (Lynch syndrome, FAP)
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Diet high in processed meat and low in fibre
- Smoking, obesity, and sedentary lifestyle
Symptoms
- Change in bowel habits or stool shape
- Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
- Abdominal pain, bloating, or unexplained anaemia
- Unintentional weight loss
Screening and Diagnosis
Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for screening and diagnosis. Staging with imaging and pathology guides decisions on surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy (especially in MSI-high tumours).
Treatment Options
- Surgery for localised disease
- Adjuvant chemotherapy for high-risk stages
- Targeted therapy for metastatic disease with specific mutations
- Immunotherapy for MSI-high or dMMR colorectal cancer
When to Consult a Specialist
Consult if you have rectal bleeding, persistent bowel changes, a positive screening test, or a confirmed diagnosis requiring treatment planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should colorectal cancer screening start?
General screening often starts at 45–50 years, or earlier with family history or symptoms. Your doctor can recommend the right schedule.
Can colorectal cancer be cured?
Early-stage colorectal cancer has high cure rates with surgery and appropriate adjuvant treatment when indicated.
Who treats colorectal cancer in Hyderabad?
Dr. Nishith Vaddeboina treats colon and rectal cancer in Hyderabad with chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy for MSI-high or dMMR tumours.
What are the warning signs of colorectal cancer?
Rectal bleeding, persistent bowel changes, abdominal pain, unexplained anaemia, and unintentional weight loss should be evaluated promptly by a specialist.
What treatment options are available for colorectal cancer?
Treatment may include surgery, adjuvant chemotherapy, targeted therapy for specific mutations, and immunotherapy for MSI-high or dMMR colorectal cancer.
