Recent Updates on Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of serious diseases that affect the human digestive system. Keeping up with the latest developments in whatever speciality we work in is a must for providing the best care and outcomes to our patients. Medicover Hospitals in Vizag is a Centre of Excellence for colorectal cancer, with an aim to reform its patient care protocols, thereby failing nowhere inferior while staying up-to-date on the latest developments. In this article, you will read the latest news about colorectal cancer from Vizag at Medicover Hospitals.

What is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer, which is also called colon or rectal cancer, begins in the colon or the rectum. This cancer usually starts as precancerous polyps that can turn malignant. If these polyps can be found in the early stage, they will certainly prevent from causing cancer.

The Importance of Early Detection

Early diagnosis of colorectal cancer increases the likely success of treatment and the chance for a better outcome. Colonoscopies, faecal occult blood tests (FOBT), and sigmoidoscopes are instruments used to screen cancerous polyps.

Recent Advancements in Screening Techniques

Improved Imaging Technologies

Advancements in imaging technologies in recent years have made colorectal cancer screening more accurate and effective. High-definition colonoscopies and narrow-band imaging improve the ability to see abnormalities in the colon lining that need to be removed.

Liquid Biopsy

Liquid biopsy is a kind of minimally invasive procedure where blood samples are used to assess cancer-specific genetic mutations and biomarkers. This approach is a promising option to detect colorectal cancer early before visible symptoms appear.

Innovations in Treatment

Targeted Therapy

Colorectal cancer has acquired the pathology of targeted therapy. The goal of these therapies is to kill only cancer cells and cause as little harm as possible to the normal cell content in the body. Recent advances have included drugs that block certain proteins involved in the growth and replication of cells carrying cancer.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is an innovative treatment in which the body's immune system fights cancer cells. Rapid progress has been made in the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors for colorectal cancer, especially in individuals with certain genetic mutations.

Personalised Medicine

Genetic Profiling

Genetic profiling will enable individualised examination and treatment by identifying the key elements involved in colorectal tumour progression. Nowadays, by studying the genetics of cancer, an oncologist can plan treatments to focus on a particular gene mutation rather than wasting time and resources guessing which treatment will be effective.

Pharmacogenomics

Pharmacogenomics is the science of how genes change a person's response to drugs. It has vast potential in the treatment of colorectal cancer, where it helps to tailor drug regimens according to an individual's genetic makeup, reducing side effects and increasing effectiveness.

Advances in Surgical Techniques

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgical techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery, have revolutionised colorectal cancer treatment. The advantages, once again, mirror those of the laparoscopic approach mentioned earlier: smaller incisions, less pain, and shorter hospitalisation and recovery times.

Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocols

ERAS protocols are bundles of perioperative care elements developed to improve surgical outcomes and enhance recovery. The protocols provide a supportive regimen, pain control methods, and early ambulation, helping to improve patient recovery.

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Modifications

Diet and Nutrition

Our diet plays a major role in lowering colorectal cancer risk. Eating a healthful diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while limiting red and processed meats reduces the risk of cancer.

Regular Exercise

Long-term regular physical activity reduces the risk of colorectal cancer. Participating in at least 150 minutes per week of moderate to vigorous exercise can also reduce cancer risk; you may also maintain a healthy weight.

Avoiding Tobacco and Limiting Alcohol

Tobacco and alcohol, both tobacco use and excessive alcohol intake, are known risk factors for colorectal cancer. Not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can be one of the ways to prevent this type of cancer.

Ongoing Research and Clinical Trials

Medicover Hospitals in Vizag is engaged in a global clinical trial of the most innovative and effective therapies to win victories over colorectal cancer. Patients get a chance to have modern therapies, and medical knowledge in the field gets advanced.

Notable Clinical Trials

In Medicover Hospitals, a clinical trial is being carried out with a new combination of targeted therapy and immunotherapy for advanced colorectal cancer. Initial results are encouraging regarding increased response rates and survival benefits.

Collaborative Research Efforts

Medicover Hospitals work closely with the world's leading research centres to be at the best of colorectal cancer studies. These partnerships provide an open forum for sharing both knowledge and resources to aid in the advancement of new treatment modalities, resulting in better care for patients.

Patient Support and Education

Comprehensive Care Programs

Medicover Hospitals has designed a program to offer complete care of colorectal cancer patients. Equipped with oncologists, surgeons, radiology experts, and nurses, these programs can help ensure that patients get the care they need holistically.

Patient Education and Awareness

Education and awareness about colorectal cancer, factors that can increase its risk, and how finding it early is key are a central part of Medicover Hospital's strategy. From workshops and seminars to leaflets, patients are given the information they need to have some control over what happens regarding their healthcare and family life.

Support Groups and Counseling

There are certain support groups and counselling provided to help the patients have proper control over the emotional and psychological situations that can arise because of having colorectal Cancer. These resources accompany you as a helping hand and expert supporter at every leg of your cancer journey.

Conclusion

Keeping up with the latest developments in colorectal cancer is critical for both healthcare providers and patients. Medicover Hospitals in Vizag is committed to implementing these advances into their patient care pathways, whereby patients will benefit from newer, most efficient treatments that are globally practised. With its pioneering treatment, continuous research, and overall care programme, Medicover Hospitals benefits here by continuing to be at the forefront of the colorectal cancer effort.

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