GEM Hospitals launches Colorectal Cancer Support Group and Helpline

Senthilkumar Rajappan is the Founder Blogger of YourCoimbatore.com, He is…
Observing World Cancer Day 2025, Gem Hospital- Coimbatore, one of India’s advanced Laparoscopic & Gastroenterology Hospitals announced the launch of its Colorectal Cancer Support Group and a dedicated Colorectal Cancer Helpline as part of its Gastrointestinal (GI) Cancer Awareness Initiatives.
The GROUP was inaugurated by Saravana Sundar, Commissioner of Police, Coimbatore, in the presence of Dr. C. Palanivelu, Chairman, Dr. P. Praveen Raj, CEO and Joint Managing Director, Dr.Rajapandian, Head of Colorectal Surgery Gem Hospital in the presence of former patients, doctors, public and medical students. The support group, formed in collaboration with former colorectal cancer patients of the hospital, aims to raise awareness about the disease, its prevention, and provide mental support to those undergoing treatment. The helpline on the other will offer guidance on prevention, screening, treatment options, post-cancer care, and psychological support.
Addressing the gathering on World Cancer Day 2025, Dr.C. Palanivelu said that Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer globally, affecting both men and women, and its incidence is rising in India.
In developed countries, CRC-induced mortality rates have decreased due to better screening and treatment. However, in India, late diagnosis remains a major issue, with 40-50% of cases detected at advanced stages. The lack of widespread screening programs and awareness means most patients are diagnosed only after symptoms appear, leading to poorer outcomes.
Dr. Rajapandian emphasized the importance of early detection, urging people over 40 to undergo colonoscopy tests, as colorectal cancer often develops without obvious symptoms.“Recognizing the early signs and symptoms leads to timely diagnosis, less aggressive treatments, and better outcomes. Hence awareness about life-threatening diseases such as cancers should be given priority,” he emphasized.
Dr. Harish said highlighting Gem Hospital’s pioneering role in colorectal cancer treatment for over 32 years, Dr.Rajapandian, Head of Colorectal Surgery Gem Hospital pointed out that the hospital performs advanced procedures such as Natural Orifice Specimen Extraction (NOSE), Laparoscopic Intersphincteric Resection (LAP ISR), and Laparoscopic Total Proctocolectomy with Ileal Pouch-Anal Anastomosis (Lap TPC+IPAA).
“I say this with humility and sheer joy that we have done more than 5000 Laparoscopic colectomies, 2500 Lap anterior resections, 220 Lap TPC+IPAA and 230 Lap ISR “.
He also noted that the hospital has successfully reduced the need for permanent stomas by 70% in low rectal cancer patients, addressing common misconceptions about the quality of life after surgery. The Colorectal Cancer Support Group that is formed today will serve as a platform for survivors to share their experiences, raise awareness, and provide mental support to those battling colorectal cancer. The helpline will act as a dedicated resource for information on prevention, screening, treatment options, post-cancer care, and psychological and nutritional support.
As part of its ongoing efforts, Gem Hospital regularly conducts screening programs and medical camps across districts, offering tests such as fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) and lower endoscopy to detect colorectal cancer at an early stage. This initiative aims to create a movement for colorectal cancer awareness, early detection, and support, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Dr.Harish Robotic Colorectal Surgeon, Dr.Sathyamoorthy and Dr.Shanker also attended the program,
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Senthilkumar Rajappan is the Founder Blogger of YourCoimbatore.com, He is a digital marketing strategist , a start up mentor and loves speaking on entrepreneurship. Loves blogging on auto, tech and books. Also has a personal website www.rsenthilkumar.com