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Colorectal Cancer in Young Patients in India: An Emerging Concern

Colorectal Cancer in Young Patients in India: An Emerging Concern Colorectal cancer (CRC), traditionally considered a disease of older individuals, is increasinglybeing diagnosed in younger patients in India. According to GLOBOCAN 2022, colorectal cancer isamong the top 5 cancers in… Get a free second opinion 𝕏fin✈ Follow Us 𝕏 in f Rising Burden in India Colorectal cancer (CRC), traditionally considered a disease of older individuals, is increasinglybeing diagnosed in younger patients in India. According to GLOBOCAN 2022, colorectal cancer isamong the top 5 cancers in India, with approximately 64,000 new cases and over 38,000 deathsannually. Data from the National Cancer Registry Programme (ICMR) also demonstrates a risingtrend, particularly in urban populations. Several Indian studies have reported that 20–40% ofcolorectal cancers occur in patients below 40 years. Changing lifestyle patterns including processeddiets, obesity, sedentary habits, and altered gut microbiota are considered contributing factors. Symptoms: Often Ignored in Young Patients A major concern in younger individuals is delayed diagnosis due to low clinical suspicion. Commonsymptoms include rectal bleeding, change in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, persistentabdominal pain, and fatigue due to anemia. These symptoms are often misattributed to benignconditions such as hemorrhoids, leading to advanced-stage presentation. Diagnosis Early diagnosis plays a critical role in improving outcomes. Evaluation includes colonoscopy withbiopsy (gold standard), CT scan or MRI for staging, and blood investigations including tumormarkers (CEA). High-risk individuals, especially those with a family history, may require earlierscreening. Treatment: Multimodality Approach Management of colorectal cancer requires a multidisciplinary approach integrating surgery,chemotherapy, and radiotherapy depending on the stage and location of the tumor. Surgeryremains the cornerstone of curative treatment. Minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopicand robotic surgery are increasingly used, offering reduced pain, faster recovery, and shorterhospital stay. Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols focus on optimized pain control,early mobilization, and early oral nutrition, leading to reduced complications and quicker recovery.Outcomes depend on stage at diagnosis, with early-stage cancers having excellent survival rates. Hereditary Colorectal Cancer A subset of young patients may have hereditary cancer syndromes including Lynch syndrome(HNPCC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Individuals with a strong family history shouldundergo genetic counseling and early surveillance. Importance of Early Diagnosis India lacks widespread screening programs for colorectal cancer. Awareness of symptoms andtimely medical evaluation are crucial. Early detection allows curative treatment and significantlyimproves long-term survival. Summary Colorectal cancer in young Indians is an emerging health concern. Recognizing early symptoms,understanding hereditary risks, and adopting multimodality treatment are essential. Advances suchas minimally invasive surgery and ERAS protocols have improved outcomes, but early diagnosisremains the key to better survival and quality of life. Author’s Bio Dr. Abhishek Aggarwal Senior Consultant — GI & HPB Oncosurgery, BLK-Max Delhi 12+ years of experience and 500+ cancer surgeries specialising in stomach, pancreatic, liver, gallbladder, bile duct and colorectal cancers. Dr. Abhishek personally reviews every case. Contact Dr. Abhishek

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