Colorectal Cancer
Colon and rectal cancer — from screening to complex, curative-intent care.
Overview
Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) is highly curable when detected early and now benefits from precision therapies, minimally invasive surgery and immunotherapy in the right patients. Global Cancer Care coordinates colorectal cancer treatment across gastroenterology, colorectal surgery, radiation and medical oncology, with a strong emphasis on organ preservation and quality of life.
Common Symptoms
- Change in bowel habits — new constipation, diarrhoea or narrow stools
- Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
- Persistent abdominal cramps, bloating or discomfort
- A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Unexplained iron-deficiency anaemia, fatigue or weight loss
Risk Factors
- Age above 45, or younger with a family history
- Personal or family history of polyps or colorectal cancer
- Inherited syndromes such as Lynch syndrome or FAP
- Long-standing inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn's)
- Diet high in processed meat, obesity, smoking and heavy alcohol use
Diagnosis
- Colonoscopy with biopsy — the gold standard for diagnosis
- CT scan of the chest, abdomen and pelvis for staging
- MRI pelvis for rectal cancer staging
- Tumour markers such as CEA for baseline and follow-up
- Molecular testing — RAS, BRAF, HER2 and MSI / MMR status for treatment selection
Treatment Options
- Endoscopic resection for very early lesions
- Laparoscopic or robotic colorectal surgery
- Neoadjuvant chemoradiation for locally advanced rectal cancer (with organ-preservation strategies where possible)
- Adjuvant and metastatic chemotherapy protocols (FOLFOX, FOLFIRI, CAPEOX)
- Targeted therapy (anti-EGFR, anti-VEGF, BRAF and HER2 directed) based on biomarkers
- Immunotherapy for MSI-high / dMMR tumours
Dr. Shivam Shingla's Expertise
Dr. Shivam personalises colorectal cancer therapy by combining biomarker testing with a multidisciplinary tumour-board approach — so patients receive the least aggressive treatment that still gives them the best chance of cure, and the most advanced options when disease is advanced.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start colorectal cancer screening?+
For average-risk adults, screening usually begins at age 45 with a colonoscopy. If a first-degree relative had colorectal cancer, screening should start earlier — please consult.
Will I need a permanent stoma (colostomy bag)?+
Most patients do not. Modern sphincter-preserving surgery and neoadjuvant treatment allow most colon and even many rectal cancers to be treated without a permanent stoma.
Does colorectal cancer always need chemotherapy after surgery?+
No. Early-stage colon cancers may not need chemotherapy at all. Decisions are guided by stage, molecular features and, where relevant, circulating tumour DNA testing.
Consultation disclaimer: This information is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Please consult a qualified oncologist for diagnosis and treatment decisions.