Why Indians Are at Greater Risk of Colorectal Cancer: What You Need to Know

Written by - Editorial Team
Medically Reviewed by - Dr Guru N Reddy

On Wed, 23 Apr 2025 Cancer Care

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Colorectal cancer, often known as colon cancer, has emerged as one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. In India, the incidence of colorectal cancer has been on the rise, especially in urban areas. But why are Indians more susceptible to this form of cancer? In this blog, we will explore the factors contributing to the increased risk, signs to watch for, and the importance of early detection and prevention.

What Is Colorectal Cancer and How Does It Develop?

Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the colon or rectum grow uncontrollably. It usually starts as a small growth, called a polyp, that may eventually turn cancerous. The colon is part of the digestive system, and the rectum is the final section of the large intestine.

While this cancer typically affects older adults, its rising prevalence among younger people in India is a growing concern. Understanding the risk factors and adopting a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in reducing the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer.

Why Are Indians at Greater Risk of Colorectal Cancer?

Several factors contribute to the higher rates of colorectal cancer in Indians. From lifestyle changes to genetic predispositions, here are the primary reasons:

1. Dietary Habits
A major factor influencing colorectal cancer in India is diet. The traditional Indian diet, high in refined carbohydrates, sugar, and low in fiber, has changed significantly over the years. The increasing consumption of processed and red meats, along with fast food, is also contributing to the rise in cancer cases. These dietary habits increase inflammation in the gut, making it more susceptible to cancerous changes.

2. Sedentary Lifestyle
In today’s fast-paced world, a sedentary lifestyle has become more common. Lack of physical activity is one of the leading risk factors for colorectal cancer. The rise in desk jobs, increased screen time, and reduced outdoor activities mean that many Indians are not getting enough exercise, which affects their overall health and increases the risk of developing cancer.

3. Genetic Factors
A family history of colorectal cancer can significantly increase your risk. Indians with a genetic predisposition to certain conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, are at higher risk for colorectal cancer. In addition, certain genetic mutations may also contribute to an individual’s likelihood of developing cancer.

4. Increasing Age
Age is another crucial factor, as the risk of colorectal cancer increases with age. Indians are now living longer due to improvements in healthcare, which means more people are reaching the age where colorectal cancer is more common. However, it's important to note that even younger individuals are now being diagnosed with colorectal cancer, a worrying trend that has been noted globally.

5. Smoking and Alcohol Consumption
Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are two behaviors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Both habits are prevalent in urban India, and the risk is compounded when combined. Smoking introduces harmful chemicals into the digestive system, while alcohol can lead to liver damage and contribute to the development of cancer in the colon and rectum.

6. Lack of Awareness and Late Diagnosis
One of the biggest reasons for the rising death rate due to colorectal cancer in India is the lack of awareness. Many individuals ignore symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, blood in stools, unexplained weight loss, and changes in bowel habits. These symptoms, when noticed early, can lead to better treatment outcomes, but many people do not seek medical help until the disease has advanced.

If you're experiencing persistent symptoms or have concerns about cancer, visit our Best Cancer Specialist in Hyderabad for expert evaluation and personalized care. Our experienced oncologists are here to guide you through every step of your treatment journey.

What Are the Symptoms of Colorectal Cancer?

It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of colorectal cancer so that you can seek medical attention early. Common signs include:

Persistent changes in bowel habits: This includes diarrhea, constipation, or a change in the size of your stool.

Blood in stool: Blood in your stool, whether bright red or dark, could indicate bleeding in the colon or rectum.

Unexplained weight loss: Sudden, unexplained weight loss can be a sign of cancer.

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Abdominal discomfort: Persistent cramping or bloating, along with feeling full, could be warning signs.

Fatigue: Chronic tiredness that doesn’t go away despite rest can be a symptom.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a doctor immediately for a proper diagnosis.

If you're experiencing symptoms, don't wait—contact our Continental Cancer Centre, the Best Cancer Hospital in Hyderabad, today for expert care.

What Are the Early Detection Methods for Colorectal Cancer?

The good news is that colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable if caught early. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, can detect abnormal growths in the colon before they become cancerous. The American Cancer Society recommends that individuals at average risk of colorectal cancer begin screening at age 45. If you have a family history of the disease or other risk factors, your doctor may suggest starting screenings earlier.

In addition to screenings, lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer:

Increase fibre intake: Eating a diet rich in fibre, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

Exercise regularly: Engaging in physical activity for at least 30 minutes most days of the week helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Limit red and processed meats: Avoid overconsumption of red meats, sausages, and processed meats, which have been linked to higher cancer risk.

Quit smoking: If you smoke, seek help to quit, as smoking is a major risk factor for many cancers.

Limit alcohol consumption: Reducing alcohol intake can significantly lower the risk of colorectal cancer.

Why Choose Continental Hospitals?

At Continental Hospitals, we prioritise the health and well-being of our patients. Our team of specialists in gastroenterology and oncology is dedicated to providing the best care for individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer. From early diagnosis through advanced treatment options, we are committed to offering comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s needs.

Our state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge technology ensure that you receive the highest standard of medical attention. We focus on personalised care, guiding you through every step of the treatment process, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

If you experience any symptoms or have concerns about colorectal cancer, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our experts. We are here to help.

Conclusion

Colorectal cancer is a serious health concern, but with early detection, lifestyle changes, and proper treatment, it is possible to manage and even prevent it. Understanding the risk factors and symptoms is the first step towards protecting your health.

If you're experiencing symptoms, don't wait—contact our Continental Cancer Centre, the best medical oncologists in Hyderabad, today for expert care.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are Indians at a greater risk of colorectal cancer?

Indians are experiencing a rising risk of colorectal cancer due to changing lifestyles, unhealthy eating habits, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Diets high in processed foods and low in fiber can negatively affect colon health. Increasing rates of diabetes and inflammatory bowel diseases also contribute to the risk. Although colorectal cancer was once considered a disease of older adults, younger Indians are now being diagnosed more frequently. Family history and inherited genetic conditions further increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Limited awareness and delayed screening often result in late diagnosis, making treatment more difficult. Regular health checkups, a balanced diet, physical activity, and timely screening can significantly reduce the risk and improve outcomes.

What are the early warning signs of colorectal cancer?

Early colorectal cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms, which is why screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they may include blood in the stool, persistent changes in bowel habits, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, bloating, or a feeling that the bowel does not empty completely. Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and anemia caused by hidden blood loss may also occur. These symptoms can resemble less serious digestive conditions, causing many people to ignore them. If any of these warning signs continue for more than a few weeks, medical evaluation is essential. Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment success and survival rates.

Can colorectal cancer affect young adults in India?

Yes. Although colorectal cancer is more common after the age of 45, an increasing number of younger adults in India are being diagnosed with the disease. Lifestyle changes, obesity, poor dietary habits, smoking, alcohol use, and genetic factors may contribute to this trend. Many younger individuals dismiss symptoms because they believe they are too young to develop cancer, leading to delayed diagnosis. Persistent digestive symptoms should never be ignored regardless of age. Individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or inherited syndromes should discuss earlier screening with their doctor. Early detection remains the best way to achieve successful treatment.

Who should undergo colorectal cancer screening?

Most adults with average risk should begin colorectal cancer screening around the age of 45, depending on their doctor's recommendation and current guidelines. People with a family history of colorectal cancer, colon polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, or inherited genetic syndromes may need screening much earlier. Screening methods include colonoscopy, stool based tests, and other specialized examinations. Even individuals without symptoms should undergo routine screening because early cancer and precancerous polyps often develop silently. Regular screening helps identify abnormalities before they become cancerous and significantly reduces the risk of advanced disease.

How can lifestyle changes help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer?

Healthy lifestyle choices play an important role in reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fiber supports colon health. Limiting processed meats, red meat, sugary foods, and ultra processed snacks is also beneficial. Regular physical activity helps maintain a healthy body weight and improves digestive health. Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption further lowers cancer risk. Managing diabetes, getting adequate sleep, and reducing stress also contribute to overall wellness. Combined with regular screening, these healthy habits provide strong protection against colorectal cancer.

Is colorectal cancer hereditary?

Yes. While most colorectal cancers occur without a strong inherited cause, some cases are linked to genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis. Individuals with close family members diagnosed with colorectal cancer or advanced colon polyps have a higher personal risk. A detailed family medical history helps doctors determine whether earlier or more frequent screening is needed. Genetic counseling and testing may be recommended for families with multiple affected relatives. Even if colorectal cancer runs in the family, healthy lifestyle choices and regular screening can help detect the disease early or prevent it.

How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose colorectal cancer using a combination of medical history, physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging, and colonoscopy. Colonoscopy is considered the most effective method because it allows direct visualization of the colon and rectum while enabling tissue biopsy or removal of suspicious polyps. Stool based screening tests may detect hidden blood or abnormal DNA changes that require further evaluation. CT scans, MRI scans, and PET scans help determine whether the cancer has spread. Early diagnosis allows treatment to begin before the disease progresses, improving the chances of successful recovery.

Can colorectal cancer be prevented?

Although colorectal cancer cannot always be completely prevented, many cases can be avoided through regular screening and healthy lifestyle habits. Screening identifies precancerous polyps that can be removed before they develop into cancer. Eating a balanced, fiber rich diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and limiting alcohol significantly lower the risk. Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease also supports long term colon health. Individuals with a family history should follow personalized screening recommendations from their healthcare provider. Early prevention and timely detection remain the most effective ways to reduce colorectal cancer related illness and death.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any medical concerns or before making any decisions about your health.