What is colorectal cancer?

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, ranking as the third most frequently diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.9 million new cases of colorectal cancer were reported globally in 2020. These numbers highlight why it is critical to understand what is colorectal cancer, how it develops, its symptoms, and what treatment options exist. In Bangalore, patients benefit from the expertise of Dr. Mathangi J, Senior Consultant and In-charge of Radiation Oncology at Gleneagles Cancer Institute, who has treated over 12,000 cancer patients with advanced therapies.

Colorectal cancer meaning explained

When people ask about colorectal cancer meaning, they want a simple explanation of a complex disease. Colorectal cancer refers to cancers that begin in the colon or rectum, which are parts of the large intestine. These cancers usually start as small, benign growths called polyps, which may turn malignant over time. Understanding the meaning of colorectal cancer helps patients and families recognize that it is not just one disease, but a spectrum of conditions that can vary in aggressiveness and treatment requirements.

What is colon cancer and how is it related?

While many people use the term colon cancer interchangeably with colorectal cancer, there is a subtle distinction. Colon cancer specifically starts in the colon, while rectal cancer originates in the rectum. Together, they form colorectal cancer. Both share similar risk factors, such as poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, and genetic predisposition. Dr. Mathangi emphasizes that early detection of colon cancer greatly improves survival rates, and screening colonoscopies are a powerful tool to identify polyps before they become cancerous.

Colorectal cancer ICD 10 classification

The colorectal cancer ICD 10 code is C18-C20, representing malignant neoplasms of the colon, rectosigmoid junction, and rectum. Accurate coding is important not only for insurance and hospital records but also for international cancer statistics and research. For patients, this classification means that healthcare professionals can track and compare treatment outcomes across the world, ensuring that therapies remain evidence-based and globally benchmarked.

Colorectal cancer diagnosis and methods

Accurate colorectal cancer diagnosis is the cornerstone of successful treatment. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of:

  • Colonoscopy: Visual examination of the colon and rectum.
  • Biopsy: Tissue sampling of suspicious lesions.
  • Imaging scans: CT, MRI, or PET scans to detect spread.
  • Blood tests: Checking tumor markers like CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen).

At Gleneagles Cancer Institute, Dr. Mathangi leverages cutting-edge imaging and pathology support to ensure precision in diagnosis. This allows for a tailored treatment plan that maximizes effectiveness while minimizing side effects.

Common symptoms of colorectal cancer

Recognizing symptoms of colorectal cancer is crucial for early detection. These include:

  • Persistent changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation.
  • Blood in stool or rectal bleeding.
  • Unexplained weight loss and fatigue.
  • Abdominal pain, cramping, or bloating.
  • Iron-deficiency anemia leading to weakness.

Unfortunately, many symptoms are vague and overlap with less serious conditions, which is why regular screening is essential, particularly for those above 45 years of age or with a family history of colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer in Hindi awareness

Awareness campaigns often include content like colorectal cancer in Hindi to reach a wider audience in India. Communicating in regional languages ensures that vital health information is not lost due to language barriers. In states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and across North India, delivering education about cancer symptoms and treatment in native languages empowers patients to seek timely care. Dr. Mathangi’s team contributes to awareness efforts that transcend linguistic boundaries, making life-saving knowledge accessible.

Why early detection matters

Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Patients diagnosed at Stage I have survival rates exceeding 90%, while advanced Stage IV disease has significantly lower outcomes. This gap underscores why early screening and timely consultations with oncologists like Dr. Mathangi are critical. She stresses that prevention and detection should be community priorities, as delaying diagnosis leads to more aggressive treatment and reduced chances of survival.

Advanced treatment approaches by Dr. Mathangi

As a Senior Radiation Oncologist with international training, Dr. Mathangi brings cutting-edge technologies into the treatment of colorectal cancer. She specializes in:

  • Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy (SBRT) for precision targeting of tumors.
  • IGRT/RapidArc techniques for accurate delivery of radiation with minimal damage to healthy tissues.
  • Intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) to deliver targeted radiation during surgery.
  • Image-guided interstitial brachytherapy for advanced cases.

Her pioneering role in installing Asia Pacific’s first TrueBeam STx machine demonstrates her leadership in the field. These innovations not only improve survival outcomes but also enhance quality of life for patients.

Cancers that need radiation therapy

According to Dr. Mathangi, cancers where radiation therapy is essential include:

  1. Head and neck cancers
  2. Brain tumors
  3. Spine tumors
  4. Esophagus and rectal cancers
  5. Lung cancers
  6. Liver cancers
  7. Breast cancers
  8. Bladder cancers
  9. Prostate cancers
  10. Uterine cancers
  11. Cervical cancer
  12. Vulval cancers
  13. Anal canal cancers
  14. Penile cancers

Her department at Gleneagles Cancer Institute integrates these therapies into a patient-centered model that emphasizes holistic care, safety, and compassion.

About Dr. Mathangi

Dr. Mathangi J is a Senior Consultant and In-charge of Radiation Oncology at Gleneagles Cancer Institute, Bangalore. With more than 20 years of experience and over 12,000 patients successfully treated, she is one of India’s most respected oncologists. She trained in Germany and Denmark in advanced stereotactic and image-guided radiotherapy, and today leads one of the most advanced oncology departments in South India. Patients recognize her not only for her medical excellence but also for her compassionate approach to cancer care.

How to book a consultation

If you or your loved ones are seeking treatment for colorectal cancer or other related cancers, it is important not to delay. To book an appointment with Dr. Mathangi, simply fill out your contact information on the form at this link. Her team will promptly schedule the consultation and guide you through the next steps of diagnosis and treatment planning.

What is colorectal cancer? — Frequently asked questions

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