Colorectal cancer screening plays a crucial role in reducing cancer-related deaths worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer globally and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Early colorectal cancer diagnosis through modern methods like colonoscopy and CEA test can dramatically improve survival rates. At the forefront of this mission in Bangalore is Dr. Mathangi J, Senior Consultant and In-charge of Radiation Oncology at Gleneagles Cancer Institute.
Colorectal cancer begins in the colon or rectum—parts of the large intestine responsible for processing waste. It usually starts as benign polyps that gradually turn cancerous if not detected in time. The good news is that with proper preventive screening and early detection, these polyps can be removed before becoming malignant. This is why experts like Dr. Mathangi emphasize regular colorectal cancer screening, especially for individuals over 45 or those with a family history of colon cancer.
Screening is the process of checking for signs of cancer before symptoms appear. The most common and effective method is a colonoscopy. This minimally invasive procedure allows doctors to visually inspect the colon and rectum for abnormalities. If polyps or unusual growths are found, they can be removed immediately during the same session. Other screening tests include fecal occult blood tests (FOBT), stool DNA tests, and the CEA test, which measures carcinoembryonic antigen levels in the blood — an important marker for colorectal cancer diagnosis.
Medical professionals often refer to the colorectal cancer screening ICD 10 codes for diagnosis documentation and insurance purposes. These standardized codes help categorize types of screenings and diagnoses, ensuring smooth medical record management and accurate insurance processing. For patients undergoing care at Gleneagles Cancer Institute, proper coding also ensures that every aspect of the treatment and diagnosis process is streamlined and efficient.
Many people ignore mild gastrointestinal symptoms that could indicate early cancer stages. According to Dr. Mathangi, patients should seek evaluation if they experience:
Such symptoms may seem harmless but could be early indicators of colon cancer or rectal malignancy. Hence, early detection remains the best defense.
Colonoscopy remains the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening and colorectal cancer diagnosis. It offers both diagnostic and preventive advantages by allowing direct visualization of the colon lining and immediate polyp removal. The procedure typically takes less than an hour and is performed under sedation. Regular colonoscopies, recommended every 10 years for average-risk adults, have significantly reduced colon cancer incidence worldwide.
The CEA test is a blood test used to detect levels of carcinoembryonic antigen—a protein that may be elevated in certain cancers. While it is not used for initial diagnosis, it plays a crucial role in tracking treatment progress and detecting recurrence. Dr. Mathangi and her team utilize the CEA test as part of a comprehensive post-treatment monitoring protocol for patients treated for colon cancer or rectal malignancy.
Incorporating preventive screening into regular health checkups can save lives. Lifestyle factors such as a high-fiber diet, regular exercise, reduced alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking significantly lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Dr. Mathangi also educates patients about dietary balance and physical fitness as part of her holistic cancer prevention approach at Gleneagles Cancer Institute.
When detected at an early stage, colorectal cancer diagnosis leads to over 90% survival rates. This highlights why early detection is so critical. Through advanced imaging, screening, and radiation therapy options like Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) and Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT), Dr. Mathangi delivers precise, organ-preserving treatments that minimize side effects and enhance recovery.
Dr. Mathangi J has over 20 years of clinical expertise, having treated more than 12,000 patients using cutting-edge radiotherapy techniques such as Stereotactic Ablative Body Radiotherapy (SABR), Gated RapidArc, and image-guided interstitial brachytherapy. Her leadership at Gleneagles Cancer Institute has made it one of South India’s most trusted centers for radiation oncology. Her commitment to precision-based care ensures patients receive the best possible treatment outcomes for conditions like colon cancer and rectal tumors.
Awareness and timely preventive screening are essential for improving survival rates and reducing treatment burden. Dr. Mathangi believes that empowering individuals with information about colorectal cancer screening is the first step toward building a cancer-free society. Her work continues to inspire patients across Bangalore and beyond to take control of their health.
Dr. Mathangi J is a Senior Consultant and In-charge of Radiation Oncology at Gleneagles Cancer Institute, Bangalore. With over two decades of experience, she specializes in advanced radiation oncology treatments, including SRS, SBRT, IMRT, and IORT. She has trained internationally in Germany and Denmark, and led the installation of Asia Pacific’s first TrueBeam STx machine. Her expertise spans multiple cancer types, including head and neck, lung, brain, prostate, breast, and gastrointestinal cancers such as colorectal and rectal malignancies. She also serves as the Director of Fellowship in Advanced Radiotherapy Techniques under RGUHS.
To schedule an appointment or second opinion, visit Dr Mathangi’s contact page and submit your details. Her team will coordinate and confirm your consultation slot promptly.
