How to recognise warning signs of colorectal disease

Colorectal cancer has become a significant global health concern, accounting for nearly 10 per cent of all cancer cases worldwide according to the World Health Organisation.

While left-sided colon cancer is more common and often presents with noticeable bowel changes, right-sided colon cancer is frequently described as "the silent one."

Dr Anil Thakwani, senior consultant and H.O.D. of Radiation Oncology at ShardaCare-Healthcity, explains that this type occurs in the ascending colon—the first segment of the large intestine.

Why Right-Sided Cancer is Alarming

Dr Thakwani shares that because the right side of the colon is a larger, more spacious area, a tumour can grow for a considerable time before causing an obstruction or significant pain.

This typically results in a late diagnosis, as the warning signs remain mild or non-specific until the disease has progressed significantly.

Critical Warning Signs to Monitor

Dr Thakwani has provided a detailed guide to the subtle indicators that may point to right-sided colon cancer. Patients are urged to pay close attention to the following:

• Unexplained Bleeding: Tumours can bleed gradually into the bowel. Unlike the visible blood often seen in left-sided cases, this slow "occult" bleeding may only manifest as anaemia, causing constant weakness.
• Persistent Bloating: A growing mass can interfere with normal digestion. If you experience a feeling of fullness or bloating that lasts for weeks, it should not be ignored.
• Rapid Weight Loss: Losing more than 4-5 kg without effort is a serious red flag, as cancer cells consume extra energy and can suppress appetite.
• Altered Bowel Habits: This may present as mild diarrhoea, irregular stools, or a sensation that the bowels have not emptied completely.
• Constant Fatigue: Persistent exhaustion that does not improve with rest is often linked to the anaemia caused by internal bleeding.

The Necessity of Early Screening

Dr strongly recommends routine screening for anyone over the age of 45, or younger individuals with a family history of the disease.

Identifying these "silent" symptoms early can make a profound difference in treatment outcomes.

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and does not count as medical advice. Readers should always consult a qualified doctor regarding any questions about their health or a medical condition.