Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum and often begins as a non-cancerous growth called a polyp. According to GLOBOCAN 2022 estimates, India recorded approximately 70,000 new colorectal cancer cases and 41,000 deaths from the disease.
Colorectal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. Screening can detect the disease before symptoms develop and can also identify polyps that may be removed before they become cancerous. Apollo Cancer Centres’ #ColFit screening program uses risk assessment, stool-based testing and colonoscopy, when required, to support early detection and appropriate follow-up.
Why Screening Is Important
#ColFit offers a simple, risk-based approach to colorectal cancer screening. It begins with a fecal immunochemical test (FIT), which checks a small stool sample for hidden blood. If the result is positive, a colonoscopy is recommended, during which polyps may be removed or a biopsy taken if a suspicious growth is found.
Detects cancer earlier: Screening may identify colorectal cancer before symptoms develop, when treatment is generally more effective.
Helps prevent cancer: During a colonoscopy, certain polyps can be removed before they progress to cancer.
Offers a convenient first-line test: The fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is a non-invasive stool test that can be completed using a small sample.
Identifies hidden blood: FIT can detect small amounts of blood in the stool that may not be visible.
Supports risk-based care: The appropriate screening test and frequency can be selected according to the individual’s age, medical history and risk factors.
No screening test detects every colorectal cancer. New or persistent bowel symptoms should always be medically evaluated, even after a recent normal screening result.
How It Works
The fecal immunochemical test detects hidden human blood in a stool sample. It requires only a small sample and does not usually involve dietary or medication restrictions. If the result is positive, a colonoscopy is generally recommended to identify the source of the bleeding.
During a colonoscopy, a thin, flexible tube with a camera is passed through the rectum to examine the colon. Polyps can often be removed during the procedure, and samples of suspicious tissue can be collected for examination. Colonoscopy may be recommended as the initial screening test for people at increased risk.
Who Should Be Screened
Inflammatory bowel disease, including ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease involving the colon
Your Screening Journey at Apollo Cancer Centres
- Registration
- Risk assessment and consultation
- Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
- Specialist review
- Colonoscopy (with or without biopsy) if recommended
- Results and next steps
Advantages of Colorectal Screening at ACC
Individualised Risk Assessment
Convenient Initial Screening
Specialist Evaluation
Comprehensive Cancer Care
Coordinated Follow-up
