Kolkata Doctors Sound Alarm as Colon Cancer Cases Surge Among Young Adults
Colon cancer, traditionally viewed as a disease affecting the elderly, is now witnessing a disturbing rise among younger adults in Kolkata at an alarming rate. Physicians across the city report detecting this malignancy in an increasing number of patients as young as their 30s and 40s, marking a significant shift in demographic patterns.
Unhealthy Lifestyles and Low Awareness Fuel the Crisis
Medical professionals point to a combination of factors driving this emerging health concern:
- Unhealthy Diet: High consumption of processed foods.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributing to obesity.
- Low Gut Health Awareness: Insufficient knowledge about digestive wellness.
"Colorectal cancer ranks as the fifth most common cancer in India. While it was predominantly associated with older adults, we are now observing a troubling number of cases in individuals in their late 30s and 40s," stated Dr. Sudeep Das, a medical and haemato oncologist at Manipal Hospital EM Bypass.
Survey Reveals High Symptom Recognition but Delayed Action
In a stark contrast to the rising incidence, a recent survey by Merck Specialities Pvt Ltd highlights that 91% of Kolkatans recognize blood in stool as the most prominent warning sign of colon cancer. This finding is part of a broader pan-India Lifestyle & Digestive Health Awareness Survey conducted across 14 Indian cities, released in Kolkata on Tuesday. The study aimed to identify major gaps in colorectal cancer awareness, with March being observed globally as colorectal cancer awareness month.
The survey included 10,198 respondents nationwide, with a sample size of 466 people from Kolkata aged 25 to 55 years. Despite high awareness, the data reveals concerning behavioral patterns:
- 76% of respondents experience irritable bowel movement, indicating a high prevalence of digestive symptoms.
- 92% delay seeking professional help even after noticing prolonged bowel habit changes.
"We must not overlook symptoms such as persistent bowel habit changes, blood in stool, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Colorectal cancer is highly treatable with early detection," emphasized Dr. Poulami Basu, a medical and haemato oncologist at NCRI Hospital Kolkata.
Lifestyle Modifications and Early Screening Are Key
Health experts stress that lifestyle and dietary habits play a pivotal role in the increasing incidence of colon cancer. Dr. Sanchayan Mandal, a medical and haemato oncologist at HCG Cancer Hospital, Kolkata, explained, "Frequent intake of processed food, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and obesity elevate the risk of this cancer. Adopting healthier practices like a fiber-rich diet, regular exercise, avoiding tobacco, and undergoing routine screening can significantly reduce the risk."
Colon cancer typically develops in the colon or rectum from small growths that can become cancerous over time. While genetics are a factor in a few cases among younger populations, the primary drivers remain modifiable lifestyle factors.
Delayed Diagnosis Due to Self-Medication
An alarming trend uncovered in the survey is that most individuals resort to home remedies or over-the-counter medications for digestive symptoms, delaying crucial early diagnosis. Dr. Das added, "This behavior postpones timely intervention, whereas colon cancer has an 80 to 90% cure rate if detected in stages 1 and 2, respectively."
The convergence of rising cases among youth, coupled with delayed medical consultation despite symptom awareness, underscores an urgent need for enhanced public health initiatives and education in Kolkata to combat this growing threat effectively.
