To strengthen the fight against colorectal cancer by creating awareness around prevention, early detection, timely intervention and treatment, Medanta-Gurugram is celebrating Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Lit in blue lights – the official colon cancer colour – symbolizing solidarity in the fight against the disease, the hospital has set up an innovative colon-shaped tunnel at the entrance. Each visitor at Medanta passes through this walk-through educational exhibit that highlights the symptoms and stages of colorectal cancer. Offering an immersive, visually stimulating experience, the tunnel is a unique medium through which medically relevant information is being disseminated, allowing for a high recall value. Several community awareness programmes are being organized in the form of health talks by leading gastroenterologists and gastro surgeons, free consultations with specialists and subsidized preventive screening programmes. Dr. Naresh Trehan, Chairman and Managing Director, Medanta said, “Colon cancer incidence in India is increasing rapidly. However, there is a lot to be desired in terms of treatment outcome in our country since most of the cases are detected at a very late stage of the disease, and the chances of survival reduce considerably. Early detection and treatment are one of the most effective ways of addressing this issue. Social awareness about colorectal cancer is very less in India, and among those who are aware, there’s an undue hesitation to get immediate medical attention. Through these initiatives, as we create awareness around this disease, we urge people to seek medical attention as and when needed.” Dr. Adarsh Chaudhary, Chairman, GI Surgery, GI Oncology and Bariatric Surgery, Institute of Digestive and Hepatobiliary Sciences, Medanta Gurugram, said, “Unlike other cancers, the long-term prognosis of colorectal cancer is very good, especially if detected at an early stage. Consuming a healthy diet, being physically active, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol intake can go a long way in preventing this disease. Modifications in diet and lifestyle can substantially reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and complement screening in reducing the incidence of the disease.’’ Dr. Amanjeet Singh, Director and Head of Colorectal Surgery, Department of GI Surgery, Medanta Gurugram, added, “Colorectal cancers are not talked about widely, but they are increasing at a rapid rate in India. Medanta Gurugram is committed to spreading awareness about this disease and its prevention. It is imperative that we realize that certain factors in our lifestyle make us prone to developing this disease. Except for the genetic factors that we inherit, many risk factors are modifiable and therefore, this is a potentially preventable disease.’’