RSUTH Hosts Hospital Grand Round on Colorectal Cancer Awareness and Survival

Rivers State University Teaching Hospital (RSUTH) recently conducted a Hospital Grand Round themed, “Hope Over Fear: The Truth About Colorectal Cancer and Survival,” aimed at educating medical professionals and the public on colorectal cancer, a major health concern both globally and in Nigeria.

Dr. Victor Wagozie of the Surgery Department delivered a detailed presentation covering the causes, risk factors, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options for colorectal cancer. Key points included the increased risk with age—particularly in individuals over 50—family history, genetic mutations, and lifestyle factors. He emphasized that screening tests, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications are critical for early detection and prevention, and that timely treatment significantly improves survival outcomes.

The presentation also outlined colorectal cancer stages, from Stage 0 to Stage IV, and discussed treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.

Highlighting the rising incidence of colorectal cancer in Nigeria, Dr. Wagozie stressed the importance of public awareness and education regarding risk factors, early symptoms, and preventive measures.

The session concluded with a call to action, urging healthcare professionals and the general public to prioritize colorectal cancer screening, awareness, and prevention to reduce the disease burden in Nigeria.