The Institute of Colorectal Surgery at Apollo Hospitals, Chennai in collaboration with Cleveland clinic, USA and University College London, UK successfully conducted the 3rd Apollo International Colorectal Symposium 2019 in Chennai between 22nd – 24th of March 2019. Colon Cancer is the third most common cancer across the world, accounting for nearly 6, 94, 000 deaths per year worldwide. Out of 1.4 million new cases diagnosed every year, one in three cases of colorectal cancers are found to be localised in the rectum. The symposium congregated the unified spectrum of colorectal cancer, regarding its prevention, analysis, treatment, supportive care and quality-of-life. It included the use of technologies for both diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer.
Rectal cancer, Anatomical considerations in rectal cancer, Emerging and new technologies available for colorectal surgery and treatment, Robotics in Rectal cancer treatment, Adjuvant Chemotherapy in Colon Cancer, Global scenario on the colorectal disease pattern, Multidisciplinary management of Colorectal Diseases, Colorectal Liver Metastasis Management, Cytoreduction Surgery etc., were the primary subjects which were discussed during the two-day conference.
Speaking to the gathering, Ms. Preetha Reddy, Vice Chairperson, Apollo Hospitals Group said, “In India, the incidences of this deadly disease are rising due sedentary lifestyle and associated dietary habits resulting in more number of people being diagnosed with the disease at an earlier age. Therefore, it is important to spread awareness about colorectal cancer. Colon cancer has a strong genetic predisposition, hence, preventive care is recommended to identify the threat much earlier and increase the scope of getting it treated successfully.”
Dr. Venkatesh Munikrishnan, Colorectal & Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Apollo Hospitals said, “More than 1200 colorectal procedures are done every year with major focus on management of colorectal diseases. Colorectal cancers are completely curable on early detection, with improved techniques and new surgical approaches. New less invasive surgical techniques are performed at Apollo Hospitals for the treatment of Colon Cancer and we are seeing excellent results. Apollo Institute of Colorectal Surgery focuses on preventive methods and screening programmes. Changing to healthy food habits with high fibre and regular exercise might help in bringing down the occurrence. This conference provided an international platform to discuss the present and future challenges in treating genetic and immunological disorders, symptoms & analysis of colorectal cancer.”
The International Colorectal Symposium on 22nd to 24th of March 2019 was a platform for all eminent Delegates, Surgeons, Physicians, Nurses and other healthcare professionals to exchange their innovative thoughts and development in the field of Colorectal Surgery and Cancer. The symposium hosted international surgeons and physicians including Prof. Steven Wexner, Chairman of Colorectal Surgery, Director – Digestive Disease Center, University College, UK, Prof. Antonio M Lacy, Chief of the Gastrointestinal Surgery Department Hospital Clinic Barcelona, Spain, President of AIS Channel, Dr. Manish Chand.
