GEM Hospital Launches Colorectal Health Helpline

Chennai, 15th March 2025: GEM Hospital Chennai, one of India’s leading hospitals specializing in gastroenterology and laparoscopic surgery, has launched a Social Media Helpline for patients with colorectal diseases. The initiative, marking Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, is aimed at making expert medical advice easily accessible to patients through popular social media platforms such as Facebook (@gemhospitalchennai) and Instagram (@gemhospitalchennai). 

The Social Media Helpline will allow patients to post their queries related to colorectal diseases, and experts from GEM Hospital’s specialized departments will respond with detailed, informative answers within 24 hours. This service ensures that patients can stay informed about their health from the comfort of their homes, making healthcare more accessible and reducing the need for immediate hospital visits.

March is observed as Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of early screening for colorectal cancer. The initiative aims to encourage healthier lifestyle choices that can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, including those affecting the colon, rectum, and anus. To commemorate this occasion, GEM Hospital hosted an awareness program on colorectal cancer to educate the public about symptoms, the disease’s behavior, and the significance of early screening.

In line with this effort, GEM Hospital also launched the Colorec+ Initiative, providing affordable screening for various colorectal diseases, including piles, fissures, fistulas, and colorectal cancer. This initiative, available until 31st March 2025, is designed to make these essential screenings more accessible to people in Chennai and surrounding areas.

During the event, GEM Hospital honored 100 courageous individuals who have triumphed over colorectal cancer. These cancer warriors shared their stories, offering hope and inspiration to those currently battling the disease. Their testimony serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience required during the cancer journey and provides encouragement to newly diagnosed patients.

Dr. C. Palanivelu, Founder of GEM Hospitals, expressed his pride in the hospital’s role in pioneering laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancers. "We are proud to have introduced laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer, and over the past 30 years, GEM Hospital has performed more than 5,500 laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgeries. Alongside our surgical treatments, we provide psychological support to each patient to ensure they have the strength and courage to face their treatment with confidence."

Dr. S. Asokan, CEO of GEM Hospital Chennai, highlighted the increasing prevalence of colorectal cancer in India, where it is one of the top five most commonly diagnosed cancers. He noted the hospital’s advanced infrastructure, including high-definition 4K/3D laparoscopic systems and the Da Vinci Robotic System, which are used for complex colorectal surgeries. "These technologies not only reduce scarring and pain but also speed up recovery while keeping treatments cost-effective," Dr. Asokan added.

Dr. P. Senthilnathan, Director of GEM Hospital Chennai, spoke about the hospital’s innovative approach to patient care, particularly through the new social media helpline. "This initiative bridges the gap between patients and healthcare professionals, providing real-time support and trusted medical advice, all from the comfort of home," he said. "With this service, we are embracing technology to make healthcare more personal, accessible, and responsive to the needs of our community."

Dr. Pinak Dasgupta, Head of the Colorectal Department at GEM Hospital, stressed the importance of regular screening for colorectal cancer. "Colorectal cancer often develops from precancerous polyps in the colon or rectum. Early screening can identify these polyps, allowing for their removal before they become cancerous," Dr. Dasgupta explained. "Tests such as colonoscopy, stool DNA, FIT (Fecal Immunochemical Test), and flexible sigmoidoscopy are among the most effective methods for early detection of colorectal cancer."

By launching the Social Media Helpline and the Colorec+ initiative, GEM Hospital continues its commitment to patient care, offering advanced treatments and valuable educational resources to improve the health and well-being of the public.

For more information, patients can visit GEM Hospital's social media pages (@gemhospitalchennai) or contact the hospital directly.