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· ColFit aims to increase colorectal cancer screening in both older and younger populations, with a strong emphasis on early detection.
· Integrates the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) with globally accepted benchmarks
Bengaluru, 29th April 2025: In response to the rise in colorectal cancer (CRC) cases across India including Karnataka, Apollo Cancer Centre, Bengaluru, has launched ColFit, a comprehensive screening program designed to detect and prevent colorectal cancer at an early stage. This initiative aims to improve survival rates, reduce treatment costs, and address the concerning trend of late-stage diagnoses, which currently lead to poor outcomes and higher healthcare burdens. Despite being highly preventable and treatable with early detection, a significant proportion of CRC cases in India are identified at advanced stages, resulting in lower survival rates and increased treatment expenses.
ColFit focuses on expanding CRC screening among both older and younger populations, emphasizing the importance of early detection. While India’s age-standardized rate (ASR) for CRC remains relatively low at 7.2 per 100,000 males and 5.1 per 100,000 females, the absolute number of cases is substantial given the country’s population of over a billion. More alarming is India’s five-year survival rate for CRC, which stands at less than 40%—among the lowest globally. The CONCORD-2 study further highlights a troubling decline in five-year survival rates for rectal cancer in certain Indian registries. (Source Link)
Colorectal cancer often presents with symptoms that should not be overlooked. These include persistent changes in bowel habits (such as chronic diarrhoea or constipation), rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and ongoing abdominal discomfort or cramps. The key risk factors include a low-fibre diet, a sedentary lifestyle, obesity, genetic predispositions, and a family history of CRC. Recognizing these symptoms and risk factors is critical for early detection and prevention.
Apollo Cancer Centre’s ColFit program introduces a ground-breaking approach to CRC detection by incorporating the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT), a non-invasive, highly accurate screening tool that identifies hidden blood in stool—a potential early indicator of CRC. FIT requires only a single sample, offers higher sensitivity, and eliminates the need for dietary restrictions, making it a convenient and patient-friendly option.
The ColFit screening process follows a structured pathway:
1. Registration and Risk Stratification: Patients are categorized based on risk levels.
o Average-risk individuals (aged 45+ with no family history) undergo FIT and stool tests.
o High-risk patients (with a family history, genetic syndromes, or inflammatory bowel disease) are recommended FIT and colonoscopy.
2. Analysis and Diagnosis: Abnormal results prompt further analysis of stool samples for occult blood or DNA mutations, while colonoscopy findings are reviewed for polyps or tumours.
3. Follow-Up and Counselling: Negative cases are advised for periodic follow-ups (1-10 years), while positive cases receive further evaluation, including biopsies if necessary. Post-screening, patients receive counselling on lifestyle modifications, personalized screening plans, and genetic counselling for high-risk individuals.
This comprehensive approach ensures early detection, timely intervention, and effective prevention, significantly reducing the risk of CRC progression.
While speaking at the launch event, Dr Yeshwanth R, Consultant- Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre, Bengaluru, stated, “We must shift from reactive care to proactive screening for colorectal cancer. Lifestyle factors such as poor diet, sedentary habits, and obesity are major contributors to rising CRC cases. A high-fiber diet, regular exercise, and proactive screenings can play a pivotal role in prevention. With ColFit, we are making early detection accessible through FIT, a simple, non-invasive test that can significantly reduce complications and improve outcomes.”
“If the disease is detected in the precancerous stage, it can be treated endoscopically without any surgeries. All cases of stage 1 and most stage 2 cases are treated only through surgery without the need for radiation and chemotherapy. For the surgical management of colorectal cancer, we have the latest technologies like the Da Vinci robotic system through which patients can undergo surgeries with very small incisions, leading to early recovery and discharge,” Dr Yeshwanth added.
Dr. Sachin S Shetty, Senior Consultant Gastroenterologist, Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road, added, “Colorectal cancer is increasingly affecting both young and elderly populations in India, yet survival rates remain alarmingly low due to late-stage diagnoses. While countries with established screening programs have seen improved outcomes, nearly 60% of CRC cases are detected at advanced stages, with an additional 20% presenting with metastases (Link). Early screening and awareness are critical to reversing this trend. At Apollo Cancer Centres, we are committed to advancing early detection through ColFit, precision treatments, and holistic care to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of CRC in India.”
If detected within stage 2, with the advancement in medical technologies, the treatment success rate for colorectal cancer up to stage 2 is between 75% and 90%. This shows the significance of a programme like ColFit to reduce the CRC disease burden.
Mr. Dinesh Madhavan, President, Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Ltd, said, “ColFit represents Apollo’s dedication to enhancing cancer care through practical innovation and wider accessibility. By introducing this comprehensive screening program, we aim to change how communities approach preventive healthcare. A significant percentage of colorectal cancers are diagnosed at advanced stages in India, and our goal is to bring reliable diagnostic tools to the population, helping people identify issues and take necessary measures at earlier and easier treatable stages.”
Colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers when detected early. Apollo Cancer Centres urges individuals, especially those with a family history of CRC or persistent symptoms, to prioritize regular screenings. Taking proactive steps such as routine FIT tests, timely colonoscopies, and adopting healthier lifestyles can help curb the rising trend of colorectal cancer and save countless lives.
