GEM Hospital Launches Colorectal screening programme as part of Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Chennai, March 23, 2026: Marking Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, GEM Hospital has unveiled a series of initiatives focused on promoting early detection and public awareness of colorectal cancer. The programme includes a free colorectal screening initiative for Tamil Nadu Government pensioners, a felicitation ceremony honouring colorectal cancer survivors, and an expert-led public awareness session.
Colorectal cancer is emerging as a significant health concern in India. According to GLOBOCAN 2022 data, the country records approximately 65,000 new cases and nearly 38,000 deaths annually. The rising incidence is attributed to urban lifestyles, dietary patterns, and ageing populations. Alarmingly, a majority of cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, adversely affecting survival outcomes.
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Highlighting the importance of early detection, Dr. P. Senthilnathan said the free screening programme aims to make preventive healthcare accessible, especially for Tamil Nadu Government pensioners who may otherwise delay or avoid screening. He emphasised that early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates and reduces treatment complexity and costs, noting that procedures such as colonoscopy can detect precancerous polyps and even prevent cancer.
The awareness sessions are designed to educate the public about key risk factors, including sedentary lifestyles, obesity, smoking, alcohol consumption, and low-fibre diets. Participants will also be informed about early warning signs such as changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, and persistent abdominal discomfort.
Stressing the importance of timely screening, Dr. Pinak Dasgupta noted that colorectal cancer is largely preventable and highly treatable when detected early. However, in India, nearly 60–70% of patients are diagnosed at advanced stages due to limited awareness and lack of routine screening. He recommended regular screening, particularly for individuals above 45 years or those with known risk factors.
As part of the initiative, the hospital also hosted a felicitation ceremony recognising colorectal cancer survivors, celebrating their resilience and reinforcing the message that early diagnosis and timely treatment can lead to successful outcomes.
Dr. C. Palanivelu highlighted that colorectal cancer is now the fourth most common cancer in India among both men and women. He pointed out that advancements in minimally invasive and robotic surgery have significantly improved patient recovery, reduced complications, and enhanced quality of life. However, he stressed that timely diagnosis through regular screening remains crucial.
He further added that recognising cancer survivors is both a tribute to their strength and a powerful reminder that colorectal cancer can be effectively treated when detected early.
Through these initiatives, GEM Hospital continues to reinforce its commitment to preventive healthcare, community outreach, and delivering advanced gastrointestinal and cancer care.
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