Colorectal cancer is one of the most significant health concerns of modern times, yet with timely diagnosis and expert treatment, survival rates and quality of life have improved tremendously. This comprehensive blog is designed to educate patients, families, and caregivers about every aspect of colorectal cancer while also highlighting the importance of choosing the right specialist for treatment.
1. What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine that play a crucial role in digestion. It usually begins as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the colon. While most polyps are benign, some can transform into cancer over time.
Globally, colorectal cancer is one of the top three most common cancers. The burden of the disease is rising in India due to lifestyle changes, increased life expectancy, and greater awareness leading to better diagnosis.
Dr. Bibin Francis, a Colorectal Cancer Specialist in Thrissur, emphasizes that colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable if detected early.
2. Risk Factors and Causes
Several factors can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer:
Age: Most cases occur after 50 years.
Family History: Genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome and FAP raise the risk.
Diet: High intake of red meat, processed foods, and low fiber.
Lifestyle: Sedentary habits, obesity, smoking, and alcohol.
Medical Conditions: Inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.
According to Dr. Bibin Francis, addressing modifiable risk factors through lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk. As a Colorectal Cancer Specialist in Thrissur, he advocates regular screening for high-risk individuals.
3. Early Symptoms and Warning Signs
Colorectal cancer often develops silently. Symptoms may not appear until the disease has advanced. Patients should seek medical advice if they notice:
Blood in stool or rectal bleeding
Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea/constipation)
Abdominal pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue and weakness
A feeling of incomplete evacuation after bowel movement
Early detection by consulting a Colorectal Cancer Specialist in Thrissur like Dr. Bibin Francis dramatically improves treatment success.
4. Screening and Diagnosis
Early detection saves lives. Regular screening is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Screening can identify precancerous polyps, which can be removed before they turn cancerous, and it can also detect cancer at an early stage when treatment outcomes are far better.
Common screening and diagnostic methods include:
Colonoscopy – The gold standard in screening and diagnosis. It not only detects polyps and cancer but also allows removal of suspicious growths during the same procedure.
Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT) – A stool-based test that checks for hidden blood, which can be an early sign of colorectal cancer.
CT Colonography – A less invasive imaging technique sometimes referred to as a “virtual colonoscopy.”
Biopsy – A tissue sample is taken for definitive confirmation if abnormalities are found.
Advanced Imaging (MRI, PET, CT scans) – Essential for staging, to determine the extent of spread and guide treatment planning.
As a leading colorectal cancer specialist in Thrissur, Dr. Bibin Francis ensures world-class diagnostic facilities with cutting-edge technology for accurate staging and personalized treatment planning.
5. Stages of Colorectal Cancer
Understanding the stage of colorectal cancer is crucial, as it directly influences treatment choices and prognosis.
Stage 0 – Cancer is confined to the innermost lining of the colon or rectum (carcinoma in situ).
Stage I – Cancer has invaded deeper layers but has not spread to lymph nodes.
Stage II – Cancer has grown through the wall of the colon or rectum but has not reached nearby lymph nodes.
Stage III – Cancer involves nearby lymph nodes but not distant organs.
Stage IV – Cancer has metastasized to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, or peritoneum.
Dr. Bibin Francis, a reputed colorectal cancer specialist in Thrissur, emphasizes that accurate staging is the foundation of effective treatment planning and ensures patients receive the most appropriate and advanced therapies.
6. Treatment Options
Treatment of colorectal cancer is highly individualized, depending on the stage of disease, tumor biology, and overall health of the patient.
A. Surgery
Polypectomy / Local Excision – Suitable for very early cases where cancer is confined to a polyp.
Colectomy – Partial or total removal of the colon, depending on the extent of disease.
Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgery – Minimally invasive options that offer quicker recovery, less pain, and smaller scars.
B. Chemotherapy
Often used after surgery (adjuvant therapy) to reduce recurrence risk or in advanced cases to shrink tumors.
Drugs circulate throughout the body, targeting cancer cells systemically.
C. Radiation Therapy
Primarily used in rectal cancer to shrink tumors before surgery, making them easier to remove.
D. Targeted Therapy
Drugs such as bevacizumab and cetuximab attack specific cancer cell mechanisms, slowing or stopping tumor growth.
E. Immunotherapy
Stimulates the body’s immune system to recognize and fight cancer cells, especially effective in certain genetic subtypes of colorectal cancer.
Dr. Bibin Francis, an experienced colorectal cancer specialist in Thrissur, carefully evaluates each case and customizes treatment plans to ensure optimal outcomes. His approach combines advanced surgical techniques, evidence-based systemic therapies, and supportive care, always focusing on improving both survival and quality of life for his patients.
Dr. Bibin Francis is a highly trusted Colorectal Cancer Specialist in Thrissur, known for his expertise, advanced treatment methods, and compassionate patient care.
Early signs may include blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, persistent constipation or diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and fatigue. If you notice these, consult a specialist immediately.
Most people should begin screening at age 45. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need earlier and more frequent screening.
Diagnosis involves colonoscopy, biopsy, imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET), and stool-based tests. A Colorectal Cancer Specialist in Thrissur like Dr. Bibin Francis ensures accurate diagnosis for effective treatment planning.
Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy. Dr. Bibin Francis provides personalized treatment plans based on the stage and nature of the cancer.