Colorectal Cancer Treatment in Lahore
Colorectal cancer — cancer of the colon or rectum — is among the most common cancers, but it is also one of the most preventable and treatable when caught early. Prof. Dr. Zahid Mahmood provides expert evaluation, colonoscopy-based diagnosis, and surgical treatment for colorectal cancer in Lahore, with a strong focus on early detection through screening.
Understanding Colorectal Cancer
The colon and rectum together form the large intestine, which absorbs water and forms stool before it leaves the body. Most colorectal cancers begin as small growths called polyps on the inner lining of the bowel. Not all polyps become cancerous, but over years, some can — which is why removing polyps during screening colonoscopy is such an effective way to prevent cancer before it starts.
Warning Signs — See a Doctor Promptly
- Change in bowel habits — diarrhoea, constipation, or narrower stools lasting more than a few weeks
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue or anaemia from slow, hidden blood loss
- A feeling that the bowel has not fully emptied
Many of these symptoms have harmless causes, such as piles or an infection, but they should always be checked — especially if they persist. Routine screening is recommended from age 45–50 even without any symptoms, or earlier if there is a family history of colorectal cancer.
How Is Colorectal Cancer Diagnosed?
The key investigation is a colonoscopy, which allows direct examination of the bowel lining and biopsy of any suspicious area. If cancer is confirmed, a CT scan is used to check whether it has spread, and blood tests (including the tumour marker CEA) may help monitor the disease. This staging determines the most appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Treatment is tailored to where the tumour is and how advanced it is, usually planned by a multidisciplinary team.
- Surgery — removal of the affected segment of colon or rectum (colectomy), or a low anterior or abdominoperineal resection for rectal cancer, often performed laparoscopically
- Chemotherapy — used before or after surgery, particularly for more advanced cancers
- Radiotherapy — frequently used together with chemotherapy for rectal cancer
- Stoma (temporary or permanent) — sometimes needed after surgery to allow the bowel to heal, or as part of the long-term plan in select cases
Why Screening Matters
Colorectal cancer is one of the few cancers that can often be prevented, not just treated — because removing polyps during a colonoscopy stops them from ever becoming cancer. When cancer is caught early, survival rates are excellent. Do not wait for symptoms if you are due for screening.
Book a Consultation in Lahore
If you have any of the warning signs above, or are due for colorectal cancer screening, please reach out. Prof. Dr. Zahid Mahmood — General, Laparoscopic & Laser Surgeon with over 30 years of experience — provides expert, compassionate colorectal care in Lahore.
👉 Book a consultation today, or call 0300-4130159.