Doctors Alarmed by Rise in Colon and Rectal Cancers in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st); For many people, a little blood in the stool, occasional constipation or an upset stomach may seem like nothing more than a minor inconvenience. 

Yet medical experts warn that these seemingly harmless symptoms could sometimes be the first warning signs of one of the most common cancers affecting Sri Lankans today.

Specialists are raising concerns over an increase in cancers of the colon and rectum, conditions that fall under the broader category of gastrointestinal cancers. According to doctors, changing lifestyles and dietary habits are playing a significant role in the growing number of cases being detected across the country.

Colon and rectal cancers often begin as small growths, known as polyps, that develop on the inner lining of the large intestine. Over time, some of these growths can develop into cancer. What makes this disease particularly important, doctors say, is that it is one of the few cancers that can often be identified and prevented before it reaches a cancerous stage.

Among the commonly recognised symptoms are passing blood with stools, black-coloured stools, sudden changes in bowel habits, abdominal bloating, persistent abdominal pain or cramps, unexplained weight loss, excessive fatigue and the feeling that the bowels have not been completely emptied after using the toilet.

Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Surgeon Dr. Isuru Upanishan says the disease has become one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers among both men and women in Sri Lanka.

"According to Sri Lanka's 2022 cancer data, cancers of the colon and rectum are among the most common cancers affecting both men and women in the country. They rank close to the top among diagnosed cancers."

He explained that one of the unique characteristics of colorectal cancer is the presence of a pre-cancerous stage.

"These cancers have a pre-cancerous phase. That means we can identify abnormal changes even before cancer develops. If action is taken at that stage, it is possible to prevent the cancer from developing altogether. There are only a limited number of cancers where this can be done, and cancers of the colon and rectum are among them."

Dr. Upanishan stressed that awareness remains crucial, particularly when symptoms appear.

"When we talk about bleeding from the rectum, that is not the only symptom. Patients often experience other warning signs as well. Changes in bowel habits are particularly important. Someone who previously had normal bowel movements may begin experiencing new constipation. Others may develop intermittent diarrhoea. If these changes are recent and accompanied by bleeding, people should seek medical attention without delay," he said.

Medical experts identify a number of risk factors associated with the disease, including a low-fibre diet, excessive consumption of red or processed meat, smoking, alcohol consumption, a family history of colon cancer and a lack of regular physical activity.

Consultant Specialist Dr. Supun Kulatunga says many people tend to ignore persistent bowel-related symptoms for too long.

"If a person develops frequent bowel movements or persistent loose stools that continue for several weeks, they should not simply dismiss it. If it were caused by a particular food item, the problem should settle within a few days once that food is avoided. However, if the condition continues for several weeks or even a month, it is advisable to seek medical attention."

He noted that while many digestive complaints may have simple explanations, some cases may be signs of something far more serious.

Dr. Kulatunga also pointed to dramatic changes in modern lifestyles and eating habits as a likely contributor to the increasing prevalence of bowel-related diseases.

"These conditions are becoming more common. Our lifestyles have changed significantly, and our eating habits have changed as well. People are increasingly consuming processed and ultra-processed foods. At the same time, there is a decline in the consumption of vegetables, fruits, leafy greens and whole grains."

He expressed particular concern about younger generations gradually moving away from traditional eating habits.

"What I see increasingly among teenagers and young people is a shift away from natural foods towards highly processed food products. They may seem more convenient, but we are seeing a growing trend of bowel-related disorders, including Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), among younger age groups."