Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

Rectal Cancer in Bangladesh: Insights from BSH (5-Year Institutional Review) Colorectal cancer is an emerging health challenge worldwide. According to GLOBOCAN 2022, it is the 8th most common cancer globally and the 10th leading cause of cancer-related death.

At Bangladesh Specialized Hospital (BSH), a 5-year institutional review of rectal cancer cases (n = 406) provides important insights into the disease pattern in our population.
Key Findings from BSH Data 406 rectal cancer patients managed in 5 years
Male predominance: 61% Male 39% Female
Age distribution:
Peak incidence: 51–60 years (24%)
Younger patients (<40 years) still represent a notable proportion.
Tumor location:
Lower rectum: 54%
Middle rectum: 31
Upper rectum: 15%
Treatment Pathways at BSH: Among patients receiving active oncologic management:
Surgery-first approach: 53 cases
Total Neoadjuvant Therapy (TNT): 36 cases
Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy (CCRT): 23 cases

Many patients completing TNT proceeded directly to surgery, reflecting the evolving role of modern multimodality therapy in rectal cancer.

Why Awareness Matters
Colorectal cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Unfortunately, many patients in Bangladesh still present at advanced stages due to delayed diagnosis.
Common warning signs include:
Rectal bleeding
Persistent change in bowel habits
Unexplained weight loss
Abdominal pain or anemia
What We Encourage
Early consultation for symptoms
Colonoscopy screening in high-risk individuals
Healthy lifestyle and diet
Multidisciplinary cancer care

At BSH, we continue to strengthen data-driven cancer care, multidisciplinary treatment, and awareness programs to improve outcomes for colorectal cancer patients in Bangladesh.
This Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, let’s promote early detection and save lives.