Medical specialists in Sri Lanka have raised concerns over an increase in cancers of the colon and rectum, warning that symptoms many people dismiss as minor can be the first signs of one of the country’s most commonly diagnosed cancers.
Doctors say changing lifestyles and dietary habits are playing a significant role in the growing number of cases being detected.
Among the most common cancers
Gastrointestinal and Hepatobiliary Surgeon Dr. Isuru Upanishan said colorectal cancers now rank close to the top of cancers diagnosed 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 said.
A cancer that can be prevented
Colon and rectal cancers often begin as small growths, known as polyps, on the inner lining of the large intestine. Some of these can develop into cancer over time — but the process leaves a window for intervention.
“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,” Dr. Upanishan said. “There are only a limited number of cancers where this can be done, and cancers of the colon and rectum are among them.”
Symptoms not to ignore
Doctors list the warning signs as blood in the stool, black-coloured stools, sudden changes in bowel habits, abdominal bloating, persistent abdominal pain or cramps, unexplained weight loss, excessive fatigue, and a feeling that the bowels have not been fully emptied.
Dr. Upanishan stressed that rectal bleeding is not the only symptom to watch for. “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.”
Consultant Specialist Dr. Supun Kulatunga said persistent bowel symptoms are too often ignored. “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.”
Risk factors
Specialists identify a low-fibre diet, heavy consumption of red or processed meat, smoking, alcohol use, a family history of colon cancer and a lack of regular physical activity as associated risks.
The warning follows a separate caution this week over rising intestinal disorders among young Sri Lankans, which specialists linked to processed foods and stress.
