Apollo Cancer Centres Launches ‘ColFit’

A Comprehensive Colorectal Cancer Screening Program Amidst Rising Cases

Navi Mumbai, 26 March 2025 :- In response to the rise in colorectal cancer (CRC) cases across India, Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) 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.

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. Key risk factors include a low-fibre diet, 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 Centres’ ColFit program introduces a groundbreaking 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.

Dr Purushottam Vashistha - Sr Consultant Gastroenterology AHNM, 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.”

Dr Rajesh Shinde - Consultant HPB, GI, Thoracic Oncology & Robotic Surgery Apollo Cancer Centres Mumbai, 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 50% of CRC cases are detected at advanced stages, with an additional 20% presenting with metastases. 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.”

Dr Deepak Kumar Gupta- Sr Consultant Gastroenterology AHNM said, ”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”