TIL Desk Lucknow:
In response to the rising incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) in India, Apollomedics Hospital has launched a comprehensive screening initiative under Apollo Cancer Centres, titled ‘Colofit’. The aim is to ensure early detection and prevention of this cancer, making treatment more accessible, reducing costs, and overcoming the challenge of late diagnosis. Currently, due to delayed identification, treatment becomes more difficult and adds pressure to healthcare systems.
The launch of the ‘Colofit’ program by Apollomedics saw the presence of several expert doctors including Dr. Wasif Raza, Associate Director, Colorectal and General Surgery; Dr. Rajiv Ranjan Singh, Associate Director, Gastroenterology and Hepatology; Dr. Jayendra Shukla, Consultant, Gastroenterology; Dr. Satish K. Anandan, Consultant; and Dr. Harshit Srivastava, Consultant, Surgical Oncology. These specialists emphasized the crucial role such screening programs play in early detection and effective treatment of colorectal cancer.
Apollomedics Colofit program focuses on enhancing timely diagnosis of this cancer in both older and younger populations. Although CRC cases in India appear relatively low per 100,000 people (7.2 in men and 5.1 in women), the sheer size of India’s population translates into a substantial number of cases. Alarmingly, the five-year survival rate for this cancer in India is less than 40%—among the lowest globally. According to the CONCORD-2 study, this rate is declining even further in some Indian regions for rectal cancer.
The symptoms of colorectal cancer should not be ignored. These include persistent changes in bowel habits (such as chronic diarrhea or constipation), blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, ongoing abdominal pain or discomfort. Risk factors include a low-fiber diet, physical inactivity, obesity, a family history of the disease, and certain genetic predispositions.
The Colofit program at Apollomedics adopts the Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) for screening—an easy, non-invasive, and highly effective diagnostic tool. It detects hidden blood in the stool, a possible early sign of disease. The advantage of FIT is that it works with just one sample, offers higher accuracy, and does not require any dietary restrictions, ensuring patient comfort and convenience.
Dr. Mayank Somani, MD and CEO of Apollomedics Hospital, Lucknow, stated, “Our mission is not just to treat but to empower people with awareness and facilitate early detection. Through the Colofit program, we aim to encourage individuals to be proactive about their health. With simple and effective tests like FIT, we are making this easier. Our advanced technology and experienced medical team ensure each patient receives the most appropriate and personalized care, enhancing their quality of life.”
Experts stress that colorectal cancer is no longer confined to the elderly—it is increasingly affecting younger individuals too. Yet, most patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage—around 50% are detected late, and over 20% already show spread to other organs. This makes early screening and raising awareness absolutely vital.
This initiative by Apollomedics Hospital, Lucknow prioritizes detection and preventive care over treatment alone. Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that, if caught early, can be completely cured. People with a family history of the disease or showing any of the mentioned symptoms are strongly advised to undergo regular screening.
Tests like FIT, timely colonoscopies, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can prevent the progression of this cancer and save countless lives.
