Admin August 30, 2025

When Is a Colonoscopy Really Needed?

A Doctor’s Guide for Patients

What Is a Colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy is a vital diagnostic and preventive procedure where a flexible tube with a camera examines the entire large intestine. This helps identify and remove polyps (precancerous growths), detect inflammation, bleeding sources, or early cancers. Many patients search online for 'colonoscopy test in Gurgaon' or 'best doctor for colonoscopy near me' when they experience symptoms like rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.

Why Colorectal Cancer Awareness Matters in India

Rising Incidence:

• Colorectal cancer in India has been steadily increasing, with an annual incidence rate rising by 2–3% over the past two decades. Urban areas like Chennai, Trivandrum, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Pune show especially sharp increases, in some cases up to 5–10% annually.
• In 2022, India reported approximately 64,863 new CRC cases and 38,367 deaths, making CRC the fourth most common cancer in both sexes.
• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) estimates over 70,000 new cases annually, representing 7–8% of all cancers in India.

Earlier Onset, Delayed Diagnosis:

• Disturbingly, CRC cases in younger Indians—those under 50 years—are climbing. This early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) tends to be more aggressive and often diagnosed late.
• News reports highlight that colon and other GI cancers are now rising in people under 50, urging greater vigilance—even in younger adults.

Indian Screening Initiatives Gaining Momentum:

• A hospital in Lucknow has launched initiatives such as 'Colofit,' using non-invasive Fecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) to detect hidden blood in stool and enable early diagnosis.
• Currently, over 50% of Indian CRC patients are diagnosed at advanced stages, with more than 20% already showing metastasis at diagnosis.
• The early death of a 37-year-old TV actor due to stage-4 colon cancer underscores the urgent need for awareness and early screening—even in younger adults.

When Should You Get a Colonoscopy?

A. Routine Screening (No Symptoms):

• Begin at age 45 for average-risk individuals. If normal, repeat every 10 years.

B. Strong Family History:

• Screen 10 years earlier than the youngest affected relative’s age (e.g., if parent was diagnosed at 55, begin at 45).

C. Alarm Symptoms:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in stool
• Persistent changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation)
• Unexplained weight loss or anemia
• Abdominal discomfort or pain

D. Chronic Conditions or Surveillance Needs:

• Patients with IBD (ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease) or a history of polyps/cancer require regular surveillance colonoscopies.

Myths vs. Facts About Colonoscopy

Myth: Colonoscopy is painful.
Fact: With modern sedation, most patients sleep through the procedure and feel no discomfort.

Myth: It’s only for people with cancer risk.
Fact: Colonoscopy is both preventive (removing precancerous polyps) and diagnostic.

Myth: It’s unsafe.
Fact: Colonoscopy is very safe when performed by trained gastroenterologists. Complications are extremely rare..

Why Early Screening Can Save Lives

Colorectal cancer often starts as benign polyps that may take a decade to change into cancer. Colonoscopy not only helps detect these early, but also removes polyps before they become dangerous, dramatically reducing CRC mortality rates. This is why doctors emphasize not ignoring warning signs like blood in stool or unexplained anemia. Searching for 'early detection of colon cancer in India' or 'colonoscopy for prevention' often reflects this growing awareness.

Key Takeaway

Colonoscopy is more than just a test—it’s a powerful tool for prevention and peace of mind. Don't wait for symptoms. Whether you're over 45, have a family history, or notice concerning signs, talk to your doctor.
At Gutwell Clinic, Gurgaon, Dr. Sukrit Singh Sethi and our team provide safe, compassionate colonoscopy with advanced diagnostics and patient education. Book your appointment today—because prevention truly is better than cure.

Top 5 reasons you might need a colonoscopy

 

Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.