Fighting colon cancer involves a combination of medical treatments, lifestyle adjustments, and regular screenings overseen by a specialised healthcare team.

Medical Treatments: Surgery:

Doctors perform a polypectomy to remove polyps, a colectomy to remove cancerous sections of the colon, or multivisceral resection if the tumour spreads to nearby structures. Minimally invasive or robotic-assisted options are also common. 

[1, 2] Chemotherapy: Strong medications are used before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumours or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells. 

[1] Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams target and shrink large or aggressive tumours, often combined with surgery and chemotherapy. 

[1] Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy: Advanced drugs block specific chemical signals or genetic mutations that help cancer cells grow or help the body's immune system recognise and destroy cancer cells. 

[1] Ablation & Histotripsy: Heat, cold, or lasers destroy small tumours or metastases when surgery is not an option.

[1] Diet and Nutrition: Eat High-Fibre Foods: Focus on whole grains (oats, brown rice), beans, lentils, and plenty of non-starchy vegetables and fruits to support gut health. 

[1, 2] Avoid Harmful Foods: Limit red meat and strictly avoid processed meats like hot dogs and bacon. Cut back on sugary drinks, ultra-processed items, and alcohol. 

[1, 2, 3] Work with a Dietitian: Consult an oncology dietitian to maintain adequate calorie and protein intake during treatment.

[1] Lifestyle Habits Get Regular Exercise: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity daily to lower cancer recurrence risk and improve treatment outcomes.

Manage Body Weight: Maintaining a healthy body mass index (BMI) reduces metabolic stress and lowers risk factors associated with colon cancer.

Stop Smoking: Quitting tobacco products improves overall recovery and long-term health.

Screening and Early Detection: Regular screenings like a colonoscopy help catch precancerous growths early, when outcomes are best. Most guidelines recommend starting regular screenings at age 45

Dr Sumit Shah, Surgical Oncologist & Robotic Cancer Surgeon

Prolife Cancer Centre & Research Institute Market Yard, Gultekdi, Pune

Appointments: +91 9607079019