Cancer warning sign awareness in Delhi remains low, survey finds
cancer awareness remains alarmingly weak in Delhi, where more than 80% of residents did not identify blood in stool as a warning sign of colon cancer, a survey released during Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month found. The findings, drawn from responses across 14 Indian cities, point to a pattern of self-medication, delayed consultation, and limited understanding of digestive symptoms among adults aged 25 to 65. Health specialists say the gaps may be helping push cases toward later diagnosis.
Blood in stool overlooked by most respondents
The nationwide Lifestyle & Digestive Health Awareness Survey covered 10, 198 people and examined how they interpret symptoms including irregular bowel movements, acidity, and rectal bleeding. In Delhi, nearly 89. 5% of respondents said they would rely on over-the-counter medication or lifestyle changes if bowel habits changed for several weeks, while only 10. 5% said they would consult a doctor.
Even with blood in stool, a symptom that can signal colorectal cancer, around 40% of respondents said they would consider self-medication. The survey also found that about 80% of respondents were unaware that serious digestive diseases, including colorectal cancer, can develop without pain. That lack of awareness can slow early action, especially when symptoms are not dramatic.
Cancer risks tied to daily habits and delay
The survey also paints a picture of lifestyle pressures that may be worsening digestive health. More than 86% of Delhi respondents reported frequent consumption of outside or packaged food, while only 35. 5% said they exercised regularly. Tobacco use was 39. 2% of respondents.
Digestive complaints were widespread but often left untreated. More than 65% reported irregular bowel movements, and over 80% experienced a sensation of incomplete bowel evacuation. The survey said family history of gastrointestinal conditions was 25. 1% of respondents, yet hereditary risk remains poorly understood and under-discussed.
What specialists are warning
Experts involved in the discussion say the biggest danger is delay. The survey said colorectal cancer is largely preventable and highly treatable when detected early, but late diagnosis remains common because people wait, self-manage, or dismiss symptoms.
The barriers are practical as well as emotional. Lack of time was the most common reason for not seeking care at 35. 4%, followed by fear at 31. 1% and embarrassment at 17. 9%. Another 15. 7% did not think their symptoms were serious enough to warrant medical attention.
cancer detection depends on recognizing symptoms early and acting on them quickly. With more than 80% of Delhi respondents missing a key warning sign, the survey suggests the next public health challenge is not only treatment, but urgency: getting people to treat digestive symptoms as reasons to seek care, not reasons to wait.
