Colon cancer, also called colorectal cancer, is cancer that starts in the large intestine or rectum. In the past, it was more common in older adults. But now, even people in their 30s and 40s are being diagnosed – especially in India.
According to Dr. MSS Keerthi, a leading Surgical Oncologist in Secunderabad, awareness of risk factors is the first step to prevention. So let’s look at the top 7 causes of colon cancer that every Indian should know.
1. Low-Fiber, High-Fat Diet
Eating too much red meat, fried food, and processed items (like chips, packaged snacks, and fast food) increases the risk. At the same time, low intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains means your digestive system doesn’t get enough fiber to keep the colon healthy.
Tip: Switch to a balanced, high-fiber diet. Include more salads, dals, fruits, and whole wheat.
2. Lack of Physical Activity
A sedentary lifestyle slows down digestion and leads to weight gain. Both increase the risk of colon cancer. This is becoming more common in urban India due to desk jobs and low movement.
Tip: Regular walking, yoga, or any form of exercise helps reduce the risk.
3. Obesity
Being overweight, especially around the belly, increases your risk of developing colon cancer. Obesity also worsens outcomes in those who already have cancer.
Tip: Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise.
4. Family History and Genetics
If someone in your family had colon or rectal cancer, your risk goes up. Certain inherited genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome or FAP (Familial Adenomatous Polyposis) also increase your risk.
Tip: If you have a family history, go for regular screening after age 40, or earlier as advised.
5. Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD)
Conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease can lead to chronic inflammation of the colon lining. Over time, this increases the chances of developing cancer.
Tip: If you have IBD, stay under regular medical care and follow-up screenings.
6. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Long-term smoking and heavy alcohol use increase the risk of many cancers, including colon cancer. These habits damage the inner lining of the digestive tract and promote cancerous growths.
Tip: Quit smoking and reduce alcohol. Your body will thank you.
7. Age and Delayed Screenings
Colon cancer risk increases with age, especially after 50. But due to lack of awareness in India, many people delay screenings and only get diagnosed when symptoms worsen.
Tip: Don’t wait for symptoms. If you're above 45 or have risk factors, consult a cancer specialist in Hyderabad like Dr. MSS Keerthi for guidance.
When to See a Doctor?
Watch out for these warning signs:
- Blood in stool
- Long-term constipation or diarrhoea
- Unexplained weight loss
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramps
- Feeling that bowel doesn't empty completely
If you have any of these symptoms, get checked without delay.
Why Choose Dr. MSS Keerthi?
- Over 17 years of cancer surgery experience
- Treated 13,000+ cancer patients
- Expert in colon, stomach, oral, and breast cancer treatments
- Performs laparoscopic and robotic colon cancer surgeries
- Known for ethical, compassionate, and personalised care
She practices at Evoke Clinic, Kompally, Secunderabad, and is widely regarded as one of the best oral and colon cancer specialists in Hyderabad.
Final Words
Colon cancer is preventable. But for that, we must know the causes, make lifestyle changes, and seek timely medical help. Don’t ignore symptoms like blood in stool or digestive discomfort. Early detection can save lives.
Consult Dr. MSS Keerthi today – a trusted name in colon cancer care in Secunderabad and Hyderabad – for screening and expert advice.
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