Did you know that globally there were about 1.9 million new cases of colorectal cancer in 2022 alone? With this rising tide of cases, understanding colon cancer is more essential than ever—especially if you want to take control of your health and not miss the chance for timely intervention. I’m Dr Mathangi, and I bring over 20 years of experience in radiation oncology at Gleneagles Cancer Institute in Bangalore, helping more than 12,000 patients benefit from advanced radiotherapy techniques. Let’s dive deep into how colon cancer works, how you can spot early signs, what causes drive it, and how modern treatment and screenings like colonoscopy can make a difference.
What is colon cancer and what does colorectal cancer meaning mean?
In simple terms: colon cancer refers to a malignant tumour arising in the large intestine (colon) and often includes the rectum when we say colorectal cancer. The phrase colorectal cancer meaning covers the broader concept of cancer that starts either in the colon or the rectum. These cancers arise when normal cells in the large bowel begin to grow abnormally and uncontrolled, forming polyps and eventually invasive cancer. Many experts use “colorectal cancer” interchangeably with colon cancer, though strictly speaking the colon and rectum are distinct anatomical segments.
Why does colon cancer happen? What are the colorectal cancer causes?
The colorectal cancer causes are multifactorial—genetics, lifestyle, diet, environment and inflammation all play a part. Understanding these factors helps in reducing risk and improving prevention strategies.
- Genetic predisposition and family history of colorectal cancer or colon polyps.
- Diet high in red and processed meats, low in fibre, high in refined sugars.
- Sedentary lifestyle, obesity, diabetes and related metabolic conditions.
- Chronic intestinal conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease).
- Adenomatous polyps that have not been removed or monitored.
- Radiation exposure and certain environmental toxins.
In India, the incidence of colon cancer has been rising rapidly across all age groups. This means being proactive is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for long-term health protection.
What are the colon cancer symptoms you should watch for? (Why early detection matters)
If you’re asking “What are colon cancer symptoms?” the answer is: many times they are subtle or easily mistaken for benign conditions. But recognising them early can save lives.
- Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, stool shape or size changes).
- Blood in stool—bright red or dark, or unexplained bleeding.
- Unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue.
- A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying or persistent abdominal discomfort or bloating.
- Anemia or low red blood cell count due to hidden bleeding.
Because early symptoms can mirror less serious conditions like haemorrhoids or IBS, vigilance and early detection are crucial. Ignoring these signals may result in delayed diagnosis, reducing the effectiveness of treatment options.
How is early detection of colon cancer done? Why does it matter?
Early detection and timely action dramatically improve outcomes for colon cancer. Catching the disease at Stage I or II gives far greater chances of cure than waiting for Stage III or IV.
- Colonoscopy – the gold standard: a direct visual inspection of the colon, allowing removal of precancerous polyps.
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or immunochemical stool tests.
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy for part-colon inspection.
- CT colonography and sometimes molecular markers for specific cases.
| Stage at Detection | Outcome | Typical Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Early (Stage I/II) | High cure rate, fewer complications | Polypectomy, surgery + possible radiotherapy/chemotherapy |
| Late (Stage III/IV) | Lower survival, more side-effects | Complex multimodal treatment, higher risk of recurrence |
In India, many patients present at advanced stages—so emphasising early detection is one of the most critical steps I take with my patients.
What does colorectal cancer treatment look like? (Modern advances and role of radiation oncology)
The phrase colorectal cancer treatment encompasses multiple modalities: surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, targeted therapies and immunotherapy. As a radiation oncologist, I focus particularly on how advanced radiotherapy techniques integrate with surgery and systemic treatments to deliver optimal outcomes.
- Surgery: Removal of the tumour and affected colon or rectum segments, often with lymph node sampling.
- Adjuvant or neoadjuvant chemotherapy: To kill micrometastases and shrink tumours before or after surgery.
- Radiation therapy: Especially in rectal cancers or locally advanced colon cancers. My expertise includes Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiotherapy (SBRT), Gated RapidArc, and image-guided Interstitial Brachytherapy.
- Targeted therapy / immunotherapy: For selected patients with specific molecular markers.
The goal is always to deliver maximal tumour control with minimal side-effects so that patients regain quality of life. At our centre, we combine the precision of technology with a compassionate, patient-focused approach to care.
How can you reduce your risk of colon cancer? Practical lifestyle and screening tips
Prevention is better than cure. While you cannot eliminate every risk, you can reduce your chances significantly.
- Start screening at age 45 or earlier if you have family history or risk factors.
- Maintain a high-fibre diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
- Limit red and processed meat, sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods.
- Stay physically active (30 minutes of exercise most days) and control your weight.
- Avoid or quit smoking; limit alcohol intake.
- If you have inflammatory bowel disease, keep up with regular check-ups and colonoscopy as recommended.
Why choose Dr Mathangi and Gleneagles Cancer Institute for colon cancer care?
When you face a diagnosis of colon cancer or are concerned about it, you deserve more than standard care. At Gleneagles Cancer Institute in Bangalore, under my leadership, we combine advanced technology, decades of experience, and empathetic patient support to achieve the best possible outcomes. Our institute installed Asia Pacific’s first TrueBeam STx machine and pioneered leading radiation techniques. With more than 12,000 patients treated, we bring a deep reservoir of clinical expertise and care.
- A multidisciplinary team including surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, gastroenterologists and dedicated nursing staff.
- Access to cutting-edge technology such as SRS/SBRT, IGRT, RapidArc, IORT and personalised treatment planning.
- A focus on early detection, prevention and holistic support for patients from across South and North India.
If you suspect any symptoms, have risk factors, or simply wish to discuss screening, you’ve already taken the first step by reading this. Don’t wait until the window closes—early action can save your life.
How to book your appointment with Dr Mathangi
Booking is simple. Visit https://drmathangi.com/contact/, submit your contact information and our team will schedule your appointment and notify you accordingly. Early action often means better outcomes.
About Dr Mathangi
Dr Mathangi J, MBBS, DMRT, DNB, is a Senior Radiation Oncologist and In-charge of Gleneagles Cancer Institute, Bangalore. She completed her DMRT at Madras Medical College, Chennai, and her DNB residency at Apollo Cancer Specialty Hospital, Chennai. She received advanced training in Germany, Denmark, and other international institutions in the latest radiotherapy techniques. With over 20 years of practice and more than 12,000 patients treated, she currently heads the radiation oncology department and serves as Director of Fellowship in Advanced Radiotherapy techniques affiliated with RGUHS.
