Colorectal Cancer: India's Rising Threat, Urgent Action Needed

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is rapidly emerging as a major public health crisis in India, now the fourth most common cancer.
• Incidence is rising by 2-3% annually, with a concerning increase among younger, productive individuals, unlike the West.
• Most Indian patients present at advanced stages (III or IV) due to ignored or misdiagnosed symptoms, leading to a 5-year survival rate below 40%.
• Approximately 15-20% of cases in India are diagnosed in people under 50, often more aggressive and with higher recurrence rates.
• Prevention through screening (FIT, colonoscopy for those over 45 or with family history) and lifestyle changes is crucial.