Apollo Cancer Centres Launch ‘ColFit’ to Combat Rising Colorectal Cancer in India

Bengaluru, April 29, 2025 — Apollo Cancer Centres has unveiled ColFit, a comprehensive colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program aimed at tackling the alarming rise of CRC cases in India, especially among younger populations. The initiative, launched at Apollo Cancer Centre, Bengaluru, focuses on early detection, preventive care, and accessible screening methods to improve survival outcomes and reduce treatment costs.

Why ColFit? The Need for Early Detection in India

Colorectal cancer is among the most preventable and treatable cancers—when caught early. However, in India, most CRC cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, contributing to a five-year survival rate below 40%, among the lowest globally.

ColFit aims to address this crisis by integrating the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT)—a non-invasive, accurate screening tool capable of detecting hidden blood in stool, an early sign of CRC. FIT offers high sensitivity, requires only one sample, and does not involve any dietary restrictions.

How ColFit Works: A 3-Step Screening Process

1. Registration and Risk Stratification

Average-risk individuals (45+ with no family history): Recommended for FIT screening.

High-risk individuals (with family history, IBD, or genetic syndromes): Advised to undergo FIT plus colonoscopy.


2. Analysis and Diagnosis

Abnormal FIT results lead to further analysis, including DNA mutation tests and colonoscopies to detect polyps or tumors.


3. Follow-Up and Lifestyle Counselling

Negative results prompt routine follow-ups every 1–10 years.

Positive cases receive further evaluation, biopsies if needed, and personalized lifestyle and screening plans, including genetic counselling.

Expert Insights: Prevention Through Proactivity

“We must shift from reactive care to proactive screening. Lifestyle factors like poor diet, inactivity, and obesity are fueling CRC cases,”
said Dr. Yeshwanth I., Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Apollo Cancer Centre.



He emphasized that early detection could help patients avoid chemotherapy and radiation altogether, particularly in stage 1 or 2 cancers, which can often be treated with surgery alone.

Apollo’s use of Da Vinci robotic systems allows for minimally invasive surgeries, ensuring faster recovery and shorter hospital stays.

“Colorectal cancer is now affecting both young and elderly Indians. Around 60% of cases are caught late, and 20% already have metastases at diagnosis,”
added Dr. Sachin S. Shetty, Senior Consultant – Gastroenterology, Apollo Hospitals, Bannerghatta Road.

ColFit: A Community-Centric Approach to Cancer Care

“ColFit represents Apollo’s commitment to transforming cancer care through innovation and accessibility,”
said Mr. Dinesh Madhavan, President – Group Oncology & International, Apollo Hospitals.



The program is designed not just as a diagnostic tool, but as a public health intervention—empowering individuals to take control of their health through simple, regular screening.

Know the Symptoms and Act Early

Common early symptoms of CRC include:

Persistent changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)

Rectal bleeding or blood in stool

Unexplained weight loss

Abdominal pain or cramps


Key risk factors: Low-fiber diet, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, family history, and genetic predisposition.



Take Action Today

Apollo Cancer Centres encourages everyone—especially those with symptoms or family history—to:

Get routine FIT screenings

Consider a colonoscopy if high-risk

Adopt a healthier lifestyle with a high-fiber diet and regular exercise


ColFit is now available at Apollo Cancer Centres across India. Early detection can save lives.



For more information or to book a screening, visit Apollo Cancer Centres Website