Rise in colorectal diseases: Medical experts deeply concerned

Why in the NEWS?

• The medical community is deeply concerned about the rising cases of colorectal diseases in India.

Key Points:

• Modern lifestyle, western dietary patterns and lack of physical activity are being cited as the main reasons for this increase.
• Increasing consumption of highly processed food, red meat and fast food is increasing the cases of colorectal problems.
• Especially in urban areas, these diseases are spreading more rapidly among working people due to long hours of sitting and irregular eating habits.

What are colorectal diseases?

• These are disorders that affect the large intestine (colon) and rectum. These include several conditions:
• Colorectal cancer: Malignant cancer that occurs in the large intestine or rectum.
• Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD): Which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. These diseases cause long-term inflammation and sores in the intestines.
• Diverticulosis: Small sacs (diverticula) in the walls of the large intestine that can cause infection. Most often seen in older people.
• Polyps: Small non-cancerous growths on the wall of the colon or rectum, which can turn into cancer over time. Early diagnosis and treatment is extremely important.
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Disturbance in the functioning of the intestines, causing abdominal pain, gas and bowel problems. It is also directly related to stress and mental health.

Symptoms:

• Abdominal pain, diarrhoea or constipation
• Blood in stool
• Weight loss
• Fatigue and anaemia
• Persistent indigestion and flatulence
• Sudden change in bowel habits

Diagnosis:

• Colonoscopy (Colonoscopic Examination): The most effective method to inspect the inner lining of the colon and rectum.
• Biopsy: Cancer is confirmed by examining a sample of suspicious tissue.
• Imaging tests (CT scan, MRI etc.): Done to determine the size of the intestines and identify any abnormalities.
• Tumour marker tests: The presence of cancer is detected through blood tests.

Treatment:

• Surgery: The primary treatment for colorectal cancer, where the affected part is removed.
• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to destroy cancer cells.
• Radiation therapy: Use of high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.
• Biologics: The latest treatment technique that strengthens the body's immune system to fight diseases like cancer and IBD.

Conference organised:

• Considering these concerns, KIMS and KIMS-Sunshine Hospitals organised a two-day annual conference under the banner of Indian Association of Surgical Gastroenterology at KIMS Hospital campus in Hyderabad.
• Objective: To make medical experts aware of the latest research and treatment protocols.
• Event dates: 14th and 15th February.
• Participants: 500+ medical professionals (surgeons, oncologists, gastroenterologists etc.) from across India.
• Patron: Dr. Bollineni Bhaskar Rao, CMD, KIMS Hospitals.
• Organizing Committee: Senior Consultants Dr. G. Parthasarathy, Dr. E. Vimalkar Reddy and Dr. R.A. Shastri.

Expert views:

• Dr. G. Parthasarathy said that personalized treatment plans based on genetic testing have significantly improved patient outcomes.
• In the treatment of IBD, Dr. Vimalkar pointed out that the use of monoclonal antibodies has significantly reduced the need for surgical intervention.
• He emphasized that “Earlier steroids and repeated surgeries were common, but now biologics are giving patients a better quality of life.”
• Experts emphasised on strengthening screening programmes for early detection of colorectal cancer in future.
• The role of continuing medical education (CME) programmes is vital.
• Such conferences keep doctors updated with new treatment protocols, thereby ensuring better patient care.
• CME programmes provide accurate knowledge and practical experience to young doctors and medical students.