Advanced Colon Cancer Treatment in India | Colon Cancer Treatment Cost in India
Colorectal cancer is the third most prevalent cancer around the world, with 1.93 million cases in 2020, according to WHO.
However, with the advancement of technology, experience, and new protocols, the survival rates of Colon cancer patients is also increasing.
Though the detection of colon cancer itself is a matter of concern but with the right treatment with the right doctor at the right time, you can beat colon cancer.
Let’s understand from the experience of Mr. Benny, a 56-year-old businessman from Kampala, Uganda. Mr. Benny owns a car showroom in Kampala. He has 2 kids who study in the USA. Benny and his wife both work together living a happy life.
Three years back, Mr. Benny had started observing abnormal constipation and was unable to empty his bowel completely. He had shown to many doctors and taken medicines but the results were temporary.
After four months, Benny’s condition started deteriorating. He also started having stomach pain and observed blood in his stool. Mr. Benny visited a reputed gastroenterologist in Kampala. The doctor physically examined benny and suggested he go for a colonoscopy.
Following the advice, Mr. Benny went for a colonoscopy.
The report shocked him as there were some hints of abnormal growth hinting towards cancer. The treating doctor suggested a few more tests to confirm the doubt and the stage of cancer.
Unfortunately, the test reports confirmed that Mr. Benny had colorectal cancer stage 2.
Mr. Benny and his family were in shock after listening to the cancer news, and were so his employees. Benny’s best friend Samuel suggested that he not take any chance and recommended that he get the treatment done in India.
Samuel regularly visits India for his business trips and also did his hernia surgery in India with MedicoExperts.
Mr. Benny took the contact details from Samuel and got in touch with MedicoExperts. MedicoExperts patient care team collected the soft copy of test reports and arranged the video consultation of Benny with one of the senior doctors from its panel.
The doctor explained the most probable treatment plan to him and mentioned that he would further evaluate with a few more tests in India before zeroing down on the final treatment plan. The doctor also cleared all his doubts regarding the treatment, such as how long the treatment will last if there are any chances of reoccurrence will be able to rejoin his business.
Mr. Benny was convinced with the doctor but he also showed his inclination to get one more opinion before the decision. MedicoExperts team, thereafter, arranged one more video consultation for Mr. Benny with one of the celebrity doctor (who is also the head of a center of excellence in one of the most reputed hospitals in India) from a different city for a second opinion. The treatment plan from this consultation was also the same as the first opinion.
Mr. Benny finally got convinced and showed his willingness to go with a celebrity doctor even if the cost of treatment of the celebrity doctor was much higher.
Fifteen days down the line, Mr. Benny got admitted to the hospital. His sons also arrived the next day from the USA.
A thorough evaluation was done to check the current condition and spread of cancer. The doctor performed the robotic surgery. A partial colectomy was done to remove the colon parts that were cancerous. Surgery was followed by chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
After two months, an evaluation was done once again to validate the outcome of the treatment. And this time, all the reports were in favor of Mr. Benny.
Mr. Benny and his family was very happy to hear that and thanked the doctors, and the MedicoExperts.
This could be your story as well.
Before we move ahead in our discussion, let’s first understand what colon cancer (also known as colorectal cancer) is.
Colon cancer is basically a type of cancer that begins at the lower end of the large intestine, which is called the rectum. The colon is also called the large intestine.
If you do not know about the biology of our body, there is no need to worry. Let’s try to understand it with the help of an image. This is a full image of the colon.
Colon cancer begins in the rectum, the lower part of the large intestine. It further moves to other parts of the colon.
In the early stage, it begins as non cancerous polyps. Polyps means non cancerous small lumps of cells on the inner surface of the colon. Non cancerous polyps can be detected with the help of screening.
After the age of 50, there are more chances to develop colon cancer. This is the reason why it is highly recommended to undergo regular screening after the age of 50. So, this is what colon cancer is.
Now, you might be wondering what casues colon cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. How to prevent colon cancer ?
- If you are above 50, go through regular screening to get an idea about colon health.
- Add more fibres to your diet. Eat more vegetables and fruits. Have a balanced diet and put some cut on red meat.
- If you are overweight, reduce your weight through regular exercise and other physical activities.
- Avoid smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.
2. Can you survive colon cancer?
Colon cancer if diagnosed early, chances of survival are high.
Early detected, localised colon cancers can be treated and patients live normal life after the treatment.
Survival rates of localised colon cancer are 91% in last 5 years
But, if Colon cancer is spread to surrounding parts and organs, survival rates are 72% in the last 5 years.
Advanced stage colon cancers can be treated as well with survival rates of 63% in the last 5 years.
3. What does poop look like with colon cancer ?
Stools may look black or look like tar. If the stool color is black then it is a warning sign that blood from the colon might have made the stool dark red or black.
Poop color may be bright red as well, in case of colon cancer.
Irregular thin stool may also be colon cancer.
But for reaching any conclusion stool samples must be further investigated.
4. Does stage 1 Colon cancer need chemotherapy?
Early stages of colon cancer like stage 1 can be cured with the help of surgery.
Usually, chemotherapy is not part of treatment in stage 1 of cancer.
Chemotherapy is used for advanced stages of cancer.
5. How long will it take me to recover from my colon cancer surgery?
Depending on the type of surgery chosen by the doctor, most patients will spend no more than 5 days in the hospital. After the surgery, patients should be able to return to their normal routine in 2 to 4 weeks. Patients may experience fatigue, which will subside over time.
6. What activities will I be permitted to engage in after surgery?
Doctors advise that you keep up your regular activities after surgery. To avoid the risk of hernia and other complications, you should refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 pounds (4.5 KG) for 4 to 6 weeks.
7. What food to avoid after the colon surgery?
Gummy foods, like bread and tough meats, should be avoided, as should spicy, fried, or gas-producing foods. Avoid drinking through a straw and chewing gum or tobacco to avoid swallowing air, which causes gas.
8. What are the risk factors for colon cancer?
Some risk factors can be avoided by changing one’s lifestyle, while others cannot. The following are some of the risk factors for colon cancer:
- Age 50 or older
- African American
- Type-II diabetes
- Personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
- Some inherited genetic syndromes
- Diet high in fat and/or low in fiber or calcium
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Heavy drinking
- Physical inactivity
9. What are the benefits of colonoscopies?
Colon cancer can often be avoided and treated. Colonoscopies can assist doctors in detecting and removing polyps in the colon before they become cancerous. People over the age of 50, as well as those who are at high risk, should have regular colonoscopies.
Next in Colon Cancer
Author Bio:
Dr. Yashashree Joshi – MBBS, MD (Philippines)
Dr. Yashashree Joshi, MD, is a globally-trained oncologist with a robust academic background and extensive experience in pioneering cancer treatments. Dedicated to patient-centered care, she continually integrates the latest advancements in oncology to provide her patients with innovative and personalized treatment plans.
Content Medically Reviewed By MedicoExperts Editorial & Clinically Review Board
