Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, but research suggests that dietary choices can play a significant role in reducing the risk. While no single food can prevent cancer entirely, adopting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and create an environment that makes it harder for cancer cells to thrive.

In this blog, we will explore the best foods to include in a cancer prevention diet, dietary habits to avoid, and lifestyle tips that can complement a healthy eating plan. Whether you are a cancer patient, survivor, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply a health enthusiast, this guide will help you make informed nutritional choices for better health.

How Diet Affects Cancer Risk

A well-balanced diet provides essential nutrients that help the body repair DNA damage, regulate cell growth, and support immune function. Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, unhealthy fats, and refined sugars can increase inflammation and oxidative stress, making it easier for cancer to develop.

Key Factors Influencing Cancer Risk

✔ Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can promote cancer cell growth.

✔ Oxidative Stress: Free radicals damage cells and increase cancer risk.

✔ Obesity: Excess weight is linked to several cancers, including breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.

✔ Insulin Resistance: High sugar intake can lead to insulin resistance, increasing cancer risk.

By choosing nutrient-dense foods, you can lower these risks and support overall well-being.

Best Foods for Cancer Prevention

Certain foods contain powerful compounds that help fight cancer at the cellular level. Here are some of the most beneficial foods to include in your diet:

  1. Fruits and Vegetables 🍎🥦

Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber that help protect against cancer.

🔹 Berries (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries): High in antioxidants like anthocyanin’s that fight free radicals.

🔹 Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts): Contain sulforaphane, which helps detoxify cancer-causing agents.

🔹 Leafy greens (spinach, kale, Swiss chard): Packed with folate and carotenoids that reduce DNA damage.

🔹 Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, which has been linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer.

  1. Whole Grains 🌾

Whole grains contain fiber, which helps regulate digestion and remove toxins from the body.

🔹 Brown rice, quinoa, oats, and whole wheat: High in fiber and nutrients that reduce colorectal cancer risk.

🔹 Flaxseeds: Contain lignin’s that have anti-cancer properties.

  1. Healthy Fats 🥑

Not all fats are bad. Healthy fats can help reduce inflammation and support cell function.

🔹 Olive oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

🔹 Nuts and seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds): Provide essential omega-3 fatty acids.

🔹 Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, sardines): High in omega-3s, which have anti-inflammatory effects.

  1. Plant-Based Proteins 🌱

Plant-based proteins are healthier alternatives to processed meats, which have been linked to cancer.

🔹 Legumes (lentils, chickpeas, black beans): High in fiber and protein.

🔹 Soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame): Contain isoflavones, which may help reduce the risk of hormone-related cancers.

  1. Spices & Herbs 🌿

Many herbs and spices contain powerful compounds that combat inflammation and oxidative stress.

🔹 Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with strong anti-cancer properties.

🔹 Garlic: Rich in sulfur compounds that boost immune defense.

🔹 Ginger: Has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

  1. Green Tea & Herbal Teas 🍵

Green tea is rich in catechins, which have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth.

🔹 Matcha & Green tea: Contains EGCG, a powerful antioxidant.

🔹 Chamomile & Hibiscus tea: May help reduce oxidative stress.

Foods to Avoid for Cancer Prevention

Just as certain foods protect against cancer, others may increase the risk.

❌ Processed Meats (bacon, sausages, deli meats): Contain nitrates and other harmful preservatives. ❌ Refined Sugars & Sugary Beverages: High sugar intake leads to insulin spikes and inflammation. ❌ Fried & Fast Foods: Rich in trans fats and unhealthy oils. ❌ Excessive Alcohol: Increases the risk of liver, breast, and esophageal cancer.

Best Dietary Habits for Cancer Prevention

📌 Eat a Rainbow: Consume a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables daily. 📌 Prioritize Whole Foods: Choose minimally processed, nutrient-rich foods. 📌 Control Portions: Maintain a healthy weight by managing portion sizes. 📌 Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and herbal teas. 📌 Reduce Red Meat Consumption: Opt for lean proteins like fish and plant-based sources. 📌 Practice Mindful Eating: Avoid emotional eating and processed snacks.

Lifestyle Factors That Complement a Cancer Prevention Diet

In addition to a healthy diet, lifestyle choices can further reduce cancer risk.

✔ Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. ✔ Quality Sleep: Poor sleep can weaken the immune system and increase inflammation. ✔ Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to disease development. ✔ Avoid Smoking & Secondhand Smoke: Tobacco is a major cause of cancer. ✔ Regular Screenings & Checkups: Early detection improves treatment outcomes.

Where to Get the Best Cancer Treatment in Delhi?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, getting the best medical care is essential. Delhi is home to some of the top cancer hospitals with advanced treatment options and experienced oncologists.

🏥 Best Cancer Hospitals in Delhi: ✔ AIIMS Delhi  ✔ Oncoplus Cancer Hospital  ✔ Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute ✔ Fortis Memorial Research Institute ✔ Max Super Specialty Hospital ✔ BLK Super Specialty Hospital

🔹 Why Choose Delhi for Cancer Treatment? ✅ Access to world-class medical professionals. ✅ Advanced immunotherapy, radiation, and surgical treatments. ✅ Affordable options compared to international cancer centers. ✅ Holistic care, including nutrition counseling and support groups.

Final Thoughts: Small Changes, Big Impact

A cancer prevention diet is not about deprivation but about making mindful, sustainable choices that nourish the body and promote long-term health. While food alone cannot eliminate cancer risk, it is a powerful tool in disease prevention and overall well-being.

✅ Key Takeaways: ✔ Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. ✔ Avoid processed foods, sugary beverages, and excessive alcohol. ✔ Maintain a balanced lifestyle with exercise, sleep, and stress management. ✔ Stay informed about the best cancer treatment options in Delhi.

By making small, consistent changes today, you can take control of your health and lower your risk of cancer.

📢 Have questions or tips on a cancer prevention diet? Drop them in the comments below!

#CancerPrevention #HealthyEating #BestCancerTreatmentInDelhi #CancerHospitalDelhi #StayHealthy

Most young folks believe that elderly people only get colorectal cancer, which is also known as colon or rectal cancer. However, recent trends have revealed a significant rise in the proportion of young adults receiving a colon cancer diagnosis. The younger generation has to be more conscious as a result of this transformation. This blog will discuss colorectal cancer information for young adults, including risk factors, symptoms, prevention, and the value of early detection.

 

Knowledge of Colorectal Cancer:

The colon or the rectum, which are components of the digestive system, is where colorectal cancer develops. On the inner lining of the colon or rectum, it often starts off as tiny growths known as polyps. Regular screening and early discovery are vital because, while not all polyps are malignant, some can develop into cancer over time.

 

Factors at Risk for Young Adults:

Here, we’ll discuss colorectal or colon cancer risk factors for young adults.

Read More: Treatment Of Cancer With Radiation Therapy

 

Common Symptoms:

Early on, colorectal cancer frequently has no symptoms. However, adolescents and young adults need to be alert to the following signs discussed below:

Read More: The Omicron Variant and People Suffering From Blood Cancer

 

Prevention:

Make a balanced diet full of fibre-rich fruits, veggies, and whole grains part of your healthy lifestyle choices. Exercise frequently, avoid smoking, and consume alcohol in moderation.

The significance of early detection when found early, colorectal cancer is very treatable. However, while it is believed that the disease primarily affects older people, young persons are frequently diagnosed with the illness at a later stage. A delayed diagnosis can considerably decrease the likelihood of successful therapy and recovery.

 

Screening Recommendations:

According to the American Cancer Society, those with an average risk of colorectal cancer should start getting screened regularly at the age of 45. However, individuals with more significant risk factors might need to begin screening sooner.

Here, we’ll discuss typical screening techniques that include:

 

In conclusion, young folks are becoming more at risk for colorectal cancer as well, so it is not just a problem for elderly people. A healthy lifestyle, being aware of the risk factors, and recognising frequent symptoms are all crucial in preventing this illness. To increase survival rates, early detection with routine screening is essential. In order to assess their risk and take preventative actions, young adults must prioritise their health, keep informed, and communicate with healthcare specialists. We can lessen the burden of colorectal cancer on the younger generation by increasing awareness and taking appropriate measures. Never forget that you may always take charge of your health and well-being. For that, you can consult with the best cancer hospital in India for routine check-ups or cancer screening. Oncoplus provides the finest cancer treatment in India with the help of advanced technologies. The cost of our treatment is cheaper than other hospitals in India or other countries.

One of the most common types of cancer worldwide is colorectal cancer, sometimes known as colon cancer. Even though the precise reason isn’t always known, there are various risk factors that we can manage. The colon or rectum are common sites. Maintaining your general health requires being proactive in reducing your risk for colorectal cancer. If you or your loved ones also have colorectal cancer and want to consult with the finest doctors, then you should consult with Oncoplus. As our specialists provide the finest colorectal cancer treatment in Delhi, India. So here we’ll look at six practical strategies to lower your risk and safeguard yourself from this potentially fatal illness in this blog.

 

Six practical strategies to reduce your risk:

  1. Embrace a Balanced Diet:

Your diet is one of the most essential factors raising your risk of colorectal cancer. You may dramatically lower your risk by eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and avoiding processed foods, red meat, and saturated fats. These food options can support healthy weight maintenance and encourage regular bowel movements, both of which are essential for preventing colorectal cancer. The vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can help shield the cells lining your colon and rectum against deterioration that might cause cancer. Whole grains, beans, and lentils are examples of fibre-rich meals that can help with digestion and reduce constipation, which shortens the time hazardous compounds are in contact with your intestinal walls.

Read More : How Your Dietary Habit Influence Cancer Disease

 

  1. Stay Physically Active:

Another crucial component of preventing colorectal cancer is regular physical activity. Maintaining a healthy weight and reducing inflammation in the body, which is connected to the emergence of cancer, are made possible by engaging in moderate to intense exercise for at least 150 minutes every week. Additionally, exercise encourages regular bowel movements and improves immune system performance, which enables your body to identify and get rid of potentially hazardous cells more quickly. It’s essential to incorporate an exercise you enjoy into your routine, whether it’s jogging, swimming, dancing, or even gardening.

Read More: Physical Activity And Cancer Risk

 

  1. Maintain a Healthy Weight:

Obesity and being overweight are known risk factors for colorectal cancer. Extra body fat, especially in the abdomen, can lead to hormonal changes and inflammation that raise the risk of developing cancer. Any weight loss, no matter how minor, can significantly reduce your risk. To reach and maintain a healthy weight, make an effort to eat a balanced diet and to exercise frequently. A certified dietician or healthcare expert can offer you individualised advice and support as you embark on your weight loss journey.

  1. Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking:

Smoking and alcohol use are both significantly linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. It’s recommended to either limit or altogether avoid drinking in order to reduce your risk. If you do decide to drink, limit yourself to modest amounts up to one drink for women and two for men every day. On the other hand, smoking not only increases your chance of colorectal cancer but also contributes significantly too many other cancers and chronic illnesses. One of the most effective actions you can take to improve your general health and prevent cancer is to stop smoking. To help you permanently break the habit, look for assistance and resources.

  1. Receive regular screenings:

The key to successful treatment and survival for colorectal cancer is early identification. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, can find cancer or precancerous polyps when they are still treatable and curable in their early stages. It’s important to discuss your screening choices with your healthcare provider because screening recommendations change depending on your age, family history, and other risk factors. In general, people at average risk should start getting screened around 45 or sooner if they have certain risk factors. As early detection could save your life, don’t put off scheduling a screening.

  1. Understand your family’s past:

It has been observed that colon cancer tends to run in families. Your risk may be higher if the disease runs in your family. Knowing your family’s medical history and sharing it with your doctor are both very important. They are better equipped to determine your risk and suggest the proper screenings and preventive steps.

 

In determination, a proactive method to safeguard your health and improve your chances of living a long and cancer-free life is taking measures to reduce your risk for colorectal cancer. You may dramatically lower your risk of contracting this potentially fatal disease by adopting a balanced diet, becoming physically active, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol use, stopping smoking, receiving routine screenings, and understanding your family history. Remember that early detection and prevention are effective weapons in the fight against colorectal cancer; as such, include these behaviours in your daily routine and urge your loved ones to do the same. The work is worthwhile for your health and well-being.

What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal cancer is the cancer of the colon, that is, in the large intestine or rectum. Both of these organs are a part of your lower part of your digestive system. The rectum is at the end of the colon. Colorectal cancer is deadly for both men and women and it is estimated that about 2 in 24 men and 3 in 24 women will develop colorectal cancer during their lifetime, making this second cancerous disease for both men and women.

The colorectal disease is usually caused by the development of polyps, which are small masses of cells in the rectum or colon. However, these growths start as benign or noncancerous but they can develop into malignant or cancerous tumours over time.

Colon cancer has 4 stages and this disease usually develops without showing any symptoms at all, until the disease has become worse or reached later stages.

The symptoms of colorectal cancer include

  • Pain in the Abdominal
  • Bleeding In the rectum
  • Changes in bowel habits (constipation, diarrhoea or thinner stool)
  • Decrease in appetite
  • tiredness or fatigue
  • Unexplained weight loss

Seek immediate medical help if you experience any of the above mentioned symptoms.

There are multiple options for colorectal cancer screening

The patients with symptoms are usually recommended the following tests for colorectal cancer screening:

Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy or coloscopy is a screening test used to detect changes or abnormalities in the large intestine (colon) and rectum. During a colonoscopy, a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope is inserted into the rectum. A tiny video camera is fitted at the tip of the tube allowing the doctor to view the inside of the entire colon. A colonoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the entire rectum and colon while the patient is put under a sedative.

If polyps are found, they are removed during the exam and sent to a lab for further examination. This is considered the gold standard for colon cancer. The exam usually completes in about 30 minutes and requires a full colon cleansing on the day before the test is done. With normal results, a colonoscopy is repeated every 10 years. The test may be repeated more often if a polyp is found or additional frequent testing is needed if the patients have a family history of this disease or any other cancer. Your doctor would recommend the screening based on your conditions.

Sigmoidoscopy


Like a colonoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy is also a procedure that lets your doctor look inside your sigmoid colon by using a flexible tube with a light on it. It helps your doctor check for ulcers, abnormal cells, and polyp.

It takes only 15-20 minutes to finish and requires a full colon cleansing on the day before the test is required. Sigmoidoscopy is a very less invasive medical examination of the large intestine from the rectum through the nearest part of the colon, the sigmoid colon.

If any evidence of cancer is found, usually, a colonoscopy is recommended so that the physician can look at the entire colon for signs of disease. It is repeated every 5 years. Sigmoidoscopy has fewer side effects and requires less bowel preparation, and poses a lower risk of bowel perforation (an uncommon event, when the screening instrument pokes a hole in the intestine) than colonoscopy.

At-home screening

These tests can be done in the privacy of your home to detect irregularities in your stool. Pass the test kit to your health care provider to get the samples checked for the presence of blood or cancer cells. If evidence of blood or cancer cells is found, further testing includes a must colonoscopy. While the other procedure includes:

  • Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT): FIT tests use antibodies to detect blood in the stool.
  • DNA Stool Test (i.e. Cologuard): This at-home test detects haemoglobin (proteins in the blood) in stool samples and can also detect certain DNA mutations in the cells shed by advanced adenomas as stool moves via the large intestine and rectum.
  • High Sensitivity Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): The FOBT is one of the most common tests used to screen for colon cancer by checking for blood in the stool.

Colorectal cancer is often preventable

Colorectal cancer usually develops from precancerous polyps or abnormal growths in the colon or rectum and can be removed without surgery.

Colonoscopy should be your final choice

There are various ways to get screened for colorectal cancer like Sigmoidoscopy, at-home stool testing, etc, and each of these has their advantages. Colon cancer screening does not always require a colonoscopy. Stool-based tests are non-invasive procedure options and don’t require prep work and usually finishes within 15 minutes.

Many tests like the DNA Stool Test(i.e. Cologuard), Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) etc can be done at home, with specimens sent into a central laboratory and provide an analysis of DNA for cancerous cells. If any of these screens come up as positive, it is important to have an optical colonoscopy as a final diagnostic step.

Recommendation for colon screening usually starts at age of 50 and some people need more frequent or early testing.

The normal colon takes almost 10 years to become cancerous and it usually starts in people ’50s.
You may need to be screened earlier or often if you or a close relative or family member have had colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer or if you have a genetic syndrome.

Colorectal screening may look different for everyone

All of our body is different and the experience may vary over the patient. Talk to your doctor about your screening schedule based on the risk factors and initial screening results. There’s handful of colorectal screening tests designed for different cases of colon cancer. And your screening type would only be best decided by your physician.

Book an appointment with the Best Cancer Specialist at Oncoplus Hospital.

What is Colon Cancer?

It is a disease wherein cancer cells develop in the tissues of the colon.

Types

  • Adenocarcinomas: most common cancer type in colon and rectum, which form from mucus cells
  • Carcinoid Tumors: develops from the hormone-making cells in the intestines
  • Lymphomas: develops from the lymph nodes or in the colon
  • Sarcomas: develops in the soft tissues (muscles) of the colon
  • Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST): develops rarely in the colon, starts as a benign tumor then eventually becomes cancerous

 Stages

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  • Stage 0 (Carcinoma in Situ): cancer cells are confined in the innermost layer (mucosa) of the colon
  • Stage I: Cancer cells in the mucosa have invaded the submucosa or to the muscle layer of the colon wall
  • Stage II
    • Stage IIA: cancer cells have invaded the muscle layer and the outermost layer (serosa) of the colon or rectum
    • Stage IIB: cancer cells have invaded the muscle layer of the colon lining and have reached the tissues surrounding the organs of the abdomen- called the visceral peritoneum
    • Stage IIC: Cancer cells have invaded the wall of the colon or rectum and have reached nearby structures
  • Stage III
    • Stage IIIA: cancer has reached the inner lining or the muscle layers of the intestine; with lymph node involvement: 1-3 or cancer nodules in the tissues surrounding the colon or rectum
    • Stage IIIB: cancer has reached the bowel wall or to adjacent organs; with lymph node involvement: 1-3 or cancer nodules in the tissues surrounding the colon or rectum
    • Stage IIIC: regardless of how extensive the tumor has grown, cancer cells have reached 4 or more lymph nodes
  • Stage IV
    • Stage IVA: Cancer has reached one distant organ of the body such as the ovary, liver, or lungs.
    • Stage IVB: The tumor has reached more than one distant part of the body
    • Stage IVC: the tumor has reached the peritoneum and may have affected other parts or organs of the body.

 Symptoms

Colon Cancer

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Changes in bowel habits
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Blood in the stool (bright red or dark red)
  • A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
  • Stools have become slender
  • Abdominal discomfort: frequent gas pains, feeling bloated, or cramps
  • Body weakness
  • Vomiting

 Risk Factors

  • Family history of colon or rectal cancer: first degree relative with colon or rectal cancer
  • Previous history of colon cancer, rectal cancer, ovarian cancer, or colorectal polyps
  • Inherited gene abnormalities: such as Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) or Hereditary polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)
  • Having an inflammatory disease in the colon: such as chronic ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease
  • Heavy alcohol consumption: consuming 3 or more drinks each day
  • Cigarette smoking
  • Obesity
  • Black race
  • Older age: as people age, they are more prone to it
  • Food consumption of low in fiber and high in fat
  • Previous radiation therapy: previous radiation treatment for cancer on the abdomen, increases the risk for cancer in the colon

Book an appointment with Oncology experts at Oncoplus Cancer care.

 Diagnosis

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Here’s some it test performed or ordered by the physician to identify cancer in the colon:

  • Obtaining history and physical assessment: history of diseases, treatments underwent, health habits if there are changes in bowel movements or any unusualities in the body; the doctor performs a physical assessment to check any signs of illness.
  • Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): a physician examines the rectum by inserting of gloved and lubricated finger to check for any unusual growths.
  • Fecal occult blood test (FOBT): a colon cancer test wherein stool specimen will be sent to the laboratory and check using a microscope for the presence of blood
  • Barium Enema or Lower GI series: a procedure for its diagnosis that involves injecting a liquid (which contains barium that creates a coating to colon linings) into the rectum then an x-ray is taken. It generates a clear image structure of the colon.
  • Sigmoidoscopy: uses a thin, flexible lighted tube with a lens- known as a sigmoidoscope and inserted through the rectum to visualize the rectum and the lower colon for any abnormal growths or areas. If abnormal growths are noted, it uses instruments to obtain tissue samples for biopsy.
  • Colonoscopy: a test for its diagnosis that uses a thin, flexible lighted tube with a camera- known as a colonoscope and inserted through the rectum to examine the rectum and colon for any unusual growth, abnormal areas, or signs of cancer. If unusual growth is noted, it uses tools to obtain tissue samples for biopsy purposes.
  • Biopsy: a colon cancer test wherein tissue samples are taken through sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy and then sent to the laboratory for biopsy.

it tests that may be used for the staging of cancer:

  • CT-scan
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • PET scan (Positron emission tomography scan)
  • Chest X-ray
  • Complete Blood Count (CBC)
  • Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) assay

Book an appointment with the best kidney cancer doctors in Delhi for Kidney Cancer Treatment

 Treatment Options

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  • It Surgery: surgical removal of the colon or a part of it that has cancer
    • Polypectomy: performed during colonoscopy, if a polyp (small growth on the colon lining) if found.
    • Local Excision: one of the colon cancer treatment options that are performed by removal of the tumor and some tissues of the rectal wall. It is done through an anal or rectal approach.
    • Hemicolectomy: a colon cancer surgery that involves removal of the cancerous part of the colon including some healthy segments of the colon on both ends. The remaining segments of the colon will be anastomosed.
    • Total colectomy: involves the removal of the entire colon. This procedure is also done for familial adenomatous polyposis or inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Chemotherapy: it treatment that kills cancer by inhibiting cell growth and reproduction.
    • Systemic chemotherapy
    • Regional chemotherapy
  • Radiation Therapy: it treatment that utilizes high-energy x-rays to kill cancer cells
    • External radiation therapy
    • Internal radiation therapy

Book an appointment with the Best Cancer Specialist at Oncoplus Hospital.

What is Colon cancer

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the in the rectum or colon present in large intestine. These organs are the final part of the digestive tract. Colon cancer is also called colorectal cancer since it combines colon cancer and rectal cancer that begins in the rectum.
Colon cancer generally affects older adults; however, it can happen at any age. It starts as small and noncancerous polyps that develop inside the colon. Over a period these polyps can develop as colon cancers. That’s why it is suggested to undergo regular screening so as to rule out the disease in early stage, if identified polyps can be removed surgically before these convert into cancer.
Lets check what all are the signs of colon cancer and how it can be managed.

What are the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer


Generally, patients experience no symptoms in the early stages of the colon cancer. The symptoms appear depending on the cancer's size and location in the large intestine. These symptoms may include:

  • A persistent change in bowel habits such as diarrhoea or constipation
  • Bleeding per rectum or bloody stool
  • Excessive and Persistent discomfort in abdomen such as cramps, gas or pain
  • A feeling of incomplete emptying of bowel
  • Weight loss without trying
  • Weakness
  • Excessive bodily fatigue
  • Vomiting

Patients may experience the following symptoms in addition in case colon cancer spreads to other parts of the body:

  • Jaundice
  • Difficulty in breathing
  • Swollen Hands or feet
  • Long lasting headache
  • Blurred vision
  • Bone fractures

“We Oncoplus Hospital, Delhi advise patients experiencing early signs to undergo screening before these signs worsen.”

What are the causes of colorectal cancer

Researchers are still working on finding the exact causing factor for colorectal cancer, however there are certain risk factors considered as responsible to contribute I the development of colorectal cancer.

  • Gene mutations
    Gene mutation is a term used for changes in DNA. When a cell’s DNA is changed or damaged, cells still divide to grow but abnormally developing a tumour.
  • Precancerous growths
    Abnormal cells accumulate in the lining of the colon developing small and non-cancerous polyps. These polyps should be removed surgically to avoid the development of cancerous tumour.

Various risk factors responsible to contribute developing colorectal cancer are as follows:

  • Older age: People who are older than 50 are at more risk of developing colorectal cancer.
  • Personal history of bowel diseases
  • Eating red meats or a diet high in processed foods. Colorectal cancer may be associated with a typical diet, which is low in fiber and high in fat and calories.
  • People with a prior history of polyps or colorectal cancer are at a greater risk of colon cancer in the future.
  • Inflammatory and chronic conditions of intestine such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease make one at high risk of developing colon cancer.
  • Inherited syndromes that are passed through generations can increase colon cancer risk. However, only a small percentage of colon cancers are linked to inherited genes.
  • Anyone with a family history of colon cancer is likely to develop colon.
  • People with sedentary lifestyle are more likely to develop colon cancer.
  • People with diabetes or who are resistant to insulin have an increased risk of colon cancer.
  • People who are overweight are at higher risk to develop colon cancer when compared with people considered normal weight.
  • Smoking may increase the risk of colon cancer.
  • More consumption of alcohol also increases the risk of colon cancer.

Book an appointment with the best oncologists for cancer treatment as well as diagnosis at best cancer Hospital in Delhi.

How to diagnose colorectal cancer

There are certain investigations recommended by the experts to screen people with either early signs or no signs in order to look for signs of colon cancer or noncancerous colon polyps. identifying colon cancer at its earliest stage helps the experts to manage the case in real time.
Any screening initiates with a medical and family history of the patient followed by a physical examination. Important tests, which are recommended to rule out the colon cancer are as follows:

  • Blood tests: Blood tests do not rule out the have colon cancer, but blood test is required to look for the overall health of the patient such as kidney and liver function tests.
  • X-ray
  • CT scan: CT scans provides a detailed image of the colon.
  • Colonoscopy: It is a procedure that involves the use of a long and flexible tube attached with a small camera. The specialist is able to see inside the colon and rectum to confirm anything unusual. In some cases if doctor finds something unusual, doctor can remove a tissue from abnormal areas which is sent to a laboratory for further analysis.

Determining the extent of the cancer

Staging in any cancer helps to determine what treatment options are most suited for a patient. After a thorough evaluation of the patient physically by the expert also through the investigations stages of colorectal cancer can be determined.

Stages of Colorectal cancer are listed as follows:
Stage 1: This is the early stage where the cancer has penetrated the lining of the colon or rectum but has not spread to the walls of organ.
Stage 2: At this stage, the cancer has spread to the walls of the colon or rectum but has not spread to the lymph nodes or surrounding tissues yet.
Stage 3: At this stage, the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes but not to other parts of the body yet.
Stage 4: This is the most advanced stage also critical one where the cancer has spread to other distant organs, such as the liver or lungs.

Treatment options for colorectal cancer


“Various treatment options available at Oncoplus Hospital, Delhi include Surgery, Chemotherapy, Immunotherapy, targeted therapy”. Let us have a detailed look:

Surgery for early-stage colon cancer

  • Polypectomy: Surgery done to remove the small and non- cancerous polyp.
  • Endoscopic mucosal resection: In this procedure, larger polyps are removed during colonoscopy using special tools.
  • Laparoscopic surgery: Those polyps that cannot be removed during a colonoscopy procedure may be removed through laparoscopic surgery.

Surgery for more advanced colon cancer

In case of advanced cancer, surgery is done to relieve a blockage of the colon or other conditions in order to improve the symptoms such as a blockage, bleeding or pain.
In specific cases where the cancer has invaded into the liver or lung but overall health is good, surgery may be recommended to remove the cancer.
But if the cancer has spread to the colon, following surgical procedures are recommended:

  • Partial colectomy: This procedure is conducted through laparoscopy. In this procedure, the surgeon removes the part of colon containing the cancer.
  • Ostomy: This surgery involves creating a way for waste to excrete through patient’s body. It is carried out by creating an opening in the wall of abdomen from a portion of the remaining bowel for the excretion of stool into a bag that is fitted securely over the opening.
  • Colostomy: Is done when patient does not get benefit from Ostomy.
  • Lymph node removal: Surrounding lymph nodes are also removed during colon cancer surgery.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill cancer cells. If the cancer is larger or has spread to the lymph nodes, chemotherapy for colon or rectal cancer is typically given after surgery. After surgery ,chemotherapy may kill any remaining cancer cells in the body and help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.
In addition, chemotherapy if given before surgery, it might shrink a large cancer so that it is easier to remove with surgery.

Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy uses powerful energy sources to destroy the cancer cells. In some cases, radiation is combined with chemotherapy to enhance the results.

Targeted drug therapy

This type of therapy focus on particular abnormalities present within cancer cells and block these abnormalities eventually killing the cancer cells.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses patient’s immune system to fight cancer. Patients with cancer has weak immune system that may not fight cancer because the cancer cells produce proteins that blind the immune system cells from identifying the cancer cells. Immunotherapy interferes with that process.

Palliative or Supportive care

Palliative care teams aim to improve the quality of life for patients with cancer. This form of care is offered alongside curative or other treatments a patient may be receiving.
Palliative care is specialized medical care that focuses on providing relief from pain and other symptoms of a serious illness. Palliative care is provided by a team of doctors, nurses and other specially trained professionals that work with patient, his/her family and patient’s other doctors to provide an extra layer of support that complements the ongoing care.

Consult the cancer specialist at Oncoplus Hospital, Delhi.