Kolkata’s Apollo Cancer Centre has recently introduced a new screening test called “Kolfit,” aimed at detecting colon cancer at an early stage. This initiative comes at a crucial time as colon cancer is among the top five cancers in the country and is associated with a high mortality rate. According to available statistics, the incidence of colon cancer in India is around 10% when adjusted for the population—a figure that underlines the urgent need for early detection.

Colon cancer often develops silently over many years. However, if symptoms are identified early through routine testing, the chances for successful treatment and cure increase dramatically. Doctors emphasize that early detection is essential for reducing both the severity of the disease and the associated treatment costs. As noted by gastroenterologist Dr. Mahesh Goenka,

“This Kolfit method, which involves screening through stool and blood tests, can easily assess the condition of the colon. It is crucial for everyone to undergo this test at least once a year. If any doubts arise, early screening can help detect the symptoms quickly and lead to prompt treatment.”

Dr. Goenka further explained that in many cases, colon cancer has a hereditary component, but lifestyle choices such as diet and living habits also play a significant role. “If treated properly at the early stage, colon cancer can be cured,” he added. This statement is supported by numerous studies worldwide that indicate early detection and intervention greatly improve survival rates. For example, data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that early-stage colon cancer has a five-year survival rate of up to 90%, compared to less than 15% for late-stage cases.

The importance of early screening is further highlighted by the fact that symptoms of colon cancer often go unnoticed until the disease has advanced. Traditional diagnostic methods can be expensive and less accessible, particularly in low-resource settings. Kolfit is designed to be an affordable alternative, costing between INR 7,000 and 8,000 at Apollo Cancer Institute. This lower cost may encourage more people to get screened regularly, which could ultimately lead to earlier diagnoses and better health outcomes.

Secondary data from various health organizations also indicate that countries with active screening programs see a significant reduction in mortality due to colon cancer. For instance, in countries like Japan and South Korea, regular colon cancer screening has resulted in a marked decrease in both incidence and death rates over the past decade. This evidence supports the idea that early detection through affordable screening can play a vital role in managing the disease.

In addition, the Kolfit test is expected to create awareness about colon cancer among the general population. Many individuals in India are still unaware of the risk factors associated with this disease, such as diet, lack of physical activity, and genetic predispositions. With increased awareness and regular testing, the burden on the healthcare system can be reduced as patients receive timely treatment, which is usually less expensive and more effective than treating advanced cancer.

The launch of Kolfit by Kolkata Apollo Cancer Centre represents a significant step forward in the fight against colon cancer in India. By providing an affordable and accessible screening test, the initiative could potentially save many lives through early detection and treatment. However, there is still a need for more public education and healthcare policies that promote regular screening for high-risk populations.