As a medical journalist, I often encounter patterns in healthcare that challenge long-held assumptions. During my recent visit to Gadre Hospital, I interviewed Dr. Chintamani Godbole to understand a growing and concerning trend—Colon Cancer in Younger Adults. Traditionally associated with older age groups, colon cancer is now being diagnosed with increasing frequency in individuals under 50, raising important questions about awareness, lifestyle, and early detection.
Sitting across from Dr. Chintamani Godbole, it became clear that this shift is not anecdotal but something he observes regularly in clinical practice.
A Changing Age Profile in Colon Cancer
Dr. Chintamani Godbole explained that while age remains a risk factor, younger patients are presenting with symptoms that were once considered atypical for their age. Abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, persistent changes in bowel habits, and rectal bleeding are often dismissed or misattributed to stress or dietary issues.
From his experience in Colorectal Surgery in Mumbai, delayed diagnosis is a recurring issue among younger adults. Many do not undergo early evaluation because neither patients nor physicians initially suspect malignancy. This delay, he noted, can influence disease stage at diagnosis.
Colon Cancer in Younger Adults: Clinical Observations from Surgical Practice
According to Dr. Chintamani Godbole, Colon Cancer in Younger Adults often presents at a more advanced stage, not necessarily because the disease is more aggressive, but because symptoms are overlooked. He emphasized that awareness among both patients and primary care providers is crucial.
Genetic predisposition, lifestyle factors, dietary patterns, sedentary habits, and rising obesity rates may all contribute, although research is still evolving. Importantly, he clarified that younger age should not be seen as protection against serious colorectal disease.
Dr. Chintamani Godbole: Qualifications and Clinical Background
Based on information from his professional profile and our discussion, Dr. Chintamani Godbole is formally trained in gastrointestinal and colorectal surgery. His qualifications reflect years of specialized surgical education followed by extensive hands-on experience in managing complex colorectal conditions.
As a Colorectal Surgeon in Mumbai, his clinical work includes both benign and malignant diseases of the colon and rectum. Over the years, he has treated patients across age groups, giving him a broad perspective on how colorectal cancer presentation has evolved.
Clinic Environment and Surgical Setup at Gadre Hospital
Gadre Hospital offers a focused surgical setting rather than a high-volume corporate environment. During my visit, the infrastructure appeared optimized for gastrointestinal and colorectal care, with operation theatres equipped for both open and minimally invasive procedures.
The outpatient areas support detailed consultations, allowing time for history-taking, explanation of diagnostic findings, and discussion of treatment options. This continuity—from evaluation to surgery to follow-up—is particularly important in cancer care, where decisions are rarely straightforward.
Diagnosis and Treatment Approach
Dr. Chintamani Godbole described a structured approach to suspected colon cancer. Evaluation begins with a detailed clinical history and physical examination, followed by investigations such as colonoscopy and imaging studies. Biopsy confirmation guides further management.
Treatment typically involves surgical removal of the affected segment of the colon, often combined with chemotherapy depending on the stage. Minimally invasive techniques are preferred when clinically appropriate, as they may allow quicker recovery without compromising oncological outcomes.
Benefits and Risks of Treatment
The primary benefit of timely treatment is disease control and, in many cases, cure—especially when cancer is detected early. Surgical resection can significantly improve survival and quality of life.
Risks, Dr. Chintamani Godbole explained in neutral terms, include those associated with major abdominal surgery, such as infection, bleeding, or bowel function changes. Long-term effects may vary depending on the extent of surgery and the need for additional therapies. He emphasized that clear communication about these risks helps patients make informed decisions.
Approximate Cost Range: A General Overview
From a non-specific standpoint, Dr. Chintamani Godbole shared that the cost of treating colon cancer varies widely. Expenses depend on factors such as disease stage, surgical complexity, hospital stay, and the need for chemotherapy or prolonged follow-up. Early-stage treatment generally involves lower overall costs compared to advanced disease requiring multimodal therapy. Transparency in discussing financial aspects, he noted, is an essential part of patient care.
Precautions and Aftercare Advice Shared During the Interview
After surgery, recovery extends beyond wound healing. Dr. Chintamani Godbole advises patients to follow dietary guidance, gradually resume physical activity, and attend regular follow-ups. Monitoring bowel habits, maintaining nutrition, and adhering to surveillance protocols are critical.
For younger adults, psychological adjustment is also important. Returning to work, managing family responsibilities, and coping with long-term follow-up can be challenging. Support systems, he emphasized, play a significant role in recovery.
Why Awareness Matters for Younger Adults
From a journalistic perspective, the most striking takeaway was the gap between perception and reality. Colon cancer is still widely viewed as a disease of older age, which may delay care in younger populations. Awareness—among individuals and healthcare providers alike—could lead to earlier diagnosis and better outcomes.
Reflective CTA: Clinic & Contact Information
Serving you from Mumbai.
Have a query or want to schedule a consultation? We are just a call away.
📞+91 8108791470 | ☎️ +91 8451865944 (In case of emergency)
📧 drchintamanigodbole@gmail.com
📍Get Directions to the Clinic – Gadre Hospital, Mumbai
As I left Gadre Hospital, the message was clear: age alone should never determine how seriously symptoms are taken. Listening early may save years later.