Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer

What Is Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer?

Stage 0 colorectal cancer represents the earliest form of cancer affecting the colon and rectum. At this stage, abnormal cancer cells stay confined to the innermost lining, called the mucosa, of the affected part of the colon or rectum. The cancer remains on the surface and does not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

 

Doctors call this early stage carcinoma in situ, meaning “cancer in place.” Because the cancer has not invaded deeper tissues or spread, doctors treat it successfully with simple procedures like a polypectomy performed during a colonoscopy.

Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer

How Is Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer Diagnosed?

Doctors use several tools to diagnose colon cancer, but routine colonoscopy screenings remain the most common method for detecting stage 0 colorectal cancer. During a colonoscopy, the doctor closely examines the lining of the colon and rectum and identifies suspicious polyps or lesions.

If the doctor suspects abnormal cancer cells, they perform a biopsy or remove the polyp (polypectomy).

 

The lab then examines the tissue to confirm whether it is stage 0 colorectal cancer or another stage. Since stage 0 cancer stays only on the surface, doctors usually do not recommend imaging tests for distant spread.

 

Patients with risk factors—such as a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of polyps, or symptoms of colon cancer like blood in stool—should speak with their doctors about timely screening.

 

Early testing helps lower the risk of developing colon cancer and improves treatment outcomes.

Treatment Options for Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer

Polypectomy: The Primary Treatment for Early Stage Cancer

At stage 0, the main treatment is a polypectomy, where the abnormal polyp containing cancer cells is removed during a colonoscopy. Since the cancer has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant lymph nodes, this procedure often cures the patient.

 

No further aggressive treatment is typically required, making this one of the least invasive forms of colon cancer treatment.

When Surgery May Be Needed for Stage 0

In some cases, if the polyp is large, difficult to remove completely, or located in a complex part of the colon, doctors may recommend minimally invasive surgery. This ensures complete removal of cancerous tissue and lowers the risk of developing colon cancer further.

 

Surgery at this stage usually involves removing a small section of the colon or rectum, followed by regular monitoring.

Follow-Up and Preventive Care

Even after successful removal of the stage 0 colorectal cancer, follow-up colonoscopies are essential to detect any new polyps early.

 

Since some patients have an ongoing risk of the colon or rectum developing additional cancers, lifestyle changes such as a high-fiber diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking are recommended to reduce the risk of developing colon or rectal cancer again.

Why Early Detection Matters: 3 Key Reasons

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is Carcinoma In Situ and How Is It Related to Stage 0 Colorectal Cancer?

Carcinoma in situ describes cancer cells that stay confined to the innermost lining of the colon and rectum. These cells do not invade deeper layers or spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

More

Can Cancer That Has Spread Outside the Colon Be Treated at Stage 0?

No. When cancer has spread beyond the colon or rectum to distant lymph nodes or other parts of the body, it no longer qualifies as stage 0. For example, stage IV colon cancer involves distant metastasis and requires more complex treatment options such as systemic chemotherapy or surgery.

 

The options depend on how far the cancer has spread, and treatment for advanced stages differs greatly from early-stage approaches. Early detection of colorectal cancer can prevent reaching such advanced stages.

More

How Do Symptoms and Diagnosis Differ Between Early and Later Stages?

Symptoms of colon cancer at stage 0 are often absent or very mild, which is why regular screening is critical to diagnose colon cancer early. In contrast, later stages like stage 1 or stage 2 colorectal cancer may cause symptoms such as blood in stool, abdominal pain, or changes in bowel habits.

 

Diagnosis at early stage relies heavily on screening tools like colonoscopy, while more advanced stages require imaging to check spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant lymph nodes. Understanding the stages of colon cancer helps determine appropriate treatment and prognosis.

More

Empowering Patients Through Early Diagnosis

When doctors find stage 0 colorectal cancer early, patients can treat it before it spreads to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. At this stage, it still remains carcinoma in situ, meaning the cancer hasn’t grown deep into the colon and rectum. Early detection gives patients more choices and a better chance for full recovery.

Why Early Detection Matters

Understanding the stages of colon cancer helps people see how serious it can become without treatment. At stage 0, treatment usually stays simple. A doctor removes the polyp with a polypectomy during a colonoscopy. This option works much better than the stronger treatments doctors use for stage IV colon cancer, when the cancer spreads to distant lymph nodes or other areas. Detecting it early helps you avoid serious health problems later.

Raise Awareness and Take Action

When patients act early, they can stop the disease from growing into more advanced cancer. Early diagnosis also opens up more colon cancer treatment options, and these choices match your overall health and personal needs. Staying informed and taking action early reduces your risk of developing colon cancer in the future.

Final Thoughts

Understanding stage 0 colorectal cancer and its treatment options is vital for early detection and successful outcomes. If you have risk factors or experience symptoms of colon cancer, don’t delay in getting screened. Early diagnosis through colonoscopy and timely removal of abnormal polyps offers the best chance to prevent the disease from progressing to dangerous stages where cancer has spread to other parts of the body or distant lymph nodes.

Your Journey

Start Your Recovery

Our dedicated Patient Navigator will assist you with appointment scheduling. Contact us at +6012-3993260 (Call or Whatsapp ).

First Consultation

On appointment day, bring along all the medical reports and your identity documents, ie. identity card or passport. Our team will help you organize the medical reports for our oncologist to review. Our oncologist will discuss the treatment plan with you. Tele-consult is available for overseas patients.

Treatment Day

Come to our center on an agreed date and time for the treatment. Our team will take good care of you. You will be discharged on the same day. Yes, you will get to go home after every treatment visit as no overnight admission is required.

Stay on Track

Our dedicated patient navigator will be following up with you post treatment to check on your condition, to ensure that you are doing well. You will receive a reminder message on your phone for the next appointment date.

Dr. Christina Ng Van Tze
Dr. Christina Ng Van Tze
Consultant Medical Oncologist
Medical Director
MBBS (Melb) FRACP (Aus)
Available
Monday - Friday : 08:00 AM TO 06:00 PM
Saturday : 08:00 AM TO 02:00 PM
DR. JOSEPH K. JOSEPH
D. Joseph K. Joseph
Consultant Medical Oncologist
MBBCH, BAO (IRE) MRCP (UK)
Available
Wednesday : 08:00 AM TO 12:00 PM
Friday : 08:00 AM TO 12:00 PM

Onco Life Centre Wins 2025 Best Oncology Clinic in Malaysia

We are proud to share that Onco Life Centre has been named the Oncology Clinic and Treatment Centre of the Year in Malaysia at the GlobalHealth Asia-Pacific Awards 2025, held in Bangkok.

This prestigious recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering personalized, compassionate, and cutting-edge cancer care to our patients. The award reflects not just our clinical excellence, but our dedication to safety, community outreach, and innovation in oncology services.

The GlobalHealth Asia-Pacific Awards celebrate leading healthcare institutions across the region. Winners are chosen based on a comprehensive evaluation of criteria such as:

  • Excellence and Innovation: Transforming healthcare delivery and patient outcomes through progressive medical practices.

  • Patient Safety: Upholding the highest standards to ensure safe, comfortable, and effective treatment environments.

  • Community Involvement: Actively engaging in public awareness, screening programs, and care for underprivileged communities.

  • Technology Adoption: Integrating advanced diagnostics, therapies, and digital tools to enhance every aspect of care.

  • Impact and Measurable Results: Demonstrating tangible improvements in cancer detection, treatment success, and patient well-being.

  • Adaptability and Preparedness: Being resilient and forward-thinking in the face of global health challenges.

  • Leadership and Vision: Cultivating a culture that prioritizes empathy, innovation, and ongoing education.

This award inspires us to continue raising the bar in oncology care—not only through medical advancements but by remaining deeply rooted in our advocacy mission: to serve, educate, and empower every cancer patient, especially those most in need.

We dedicate this achievement to our patients, survivors, caregivers, and the entire Onco Life Centre community. Your courage fuels our purpose. Together, we will continue the fight—because every life matters.

More

NSCLC (Non-small cell lung cancer)

NSCLC (Non-small cell lung cancer)
NSCLC (Non-small cell lung cancer)

2010 Breast and Lung Cancer Awareness Campaign (LEMBAH PANTAI)

2010 Breast and Lung Cancer Awareness Campaign (LEMBAH PANTAI)
2010 Breast and Lung Cancer Awareness Campaign (LEMBAH PANTAI)

2011 Colorectal Cancer Screening and Treatment Community Project (GOMBAK AND SELAYANG)

2011 Colorectal Cancer Screening and Treatment Community Project (GOMBAK AND SELAYANG)
2011 Colorectal Cancer Screening and Treatment Community Project (GOMBAK AND SELAYANG)

2011 & 2012 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Community Project (SETAPAK)

2011 & 2012 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Community Project (SETAPAK)
2011 & 2012 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Community Project (SETAPAK)

2012 Colorectal Cancer Screening and Treatment Community Project (LEMBAH SUBANG)

2012 Colorectal Cancer Screening and Treatment Community Project (LEMBAH SUBANG)
2012 Colorectal Cancer Screening and Treatment Community Project (LEMBAH SUBANG)

2014 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Community Project (CHERAS)

2014 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Community Project (CHERAS)
2014 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Community Project (CHERAS)

2015 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Project (HILIRAN AMPANG)

2015 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Project (HILIRAN AMPANG)
2015 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Project (HILIRAN AMPANG)

2016 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Project (DESA TUN RAZAK)

2016 Colorectal Cancer Awareness, Screening and Treatment Project (DESA TUN RAZAK)
2010 Breast and Lung Cancer Awareness Campaign (LEMBAH PANTAI)

Credentials You Can Trust

Ministry of Health Malaysia

Ministry of Health Malaysia

Onco Life Centre is fully licensed as an Oncology Consultation and Treatment Centre (License No: 931401-00214-03/2024)

CONSULTANT MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST

DR. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE

CONSULTANT MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST (NSR: 131550)
MBBS (MELB), FELLOW RACP (AUS)

Leading Cancer Specialist

DR. JOSEPH KANIANTHRA JOSEPH

CONSULTANT MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST (NSR: 124660)
MBBCH, BAO (IRE), MRCP (UK)

Service Area

Over the years, we have had patients from these countries who have visited us for consultation or treatment:
World map highlighting Onco Life Centre’s locations and service areas for advanced cancer treatment, oncology care, and chemotherapy in Malaysia.

Onco Life Centre location

Service Area

Over the years, we have had patients from these countries who have visited us for consultation or treatment:
Malaysia flag
Germany Flag
Iran Flag
Qatar Flag
Bangladesh Flag
India Flag
Indonesia Flag
Phillipines Flag
Singapore Flag
China Flag
Japan Flag
Uk Flag

Onco Life Centre location

Download our booklet
about Colorectal cancer for FREE

Download our booklet

Unduh manual tentang kanker kandung kemih secara gratis.

免费下载有关膀胱癌的手册

免费下载有关膀胱癌的手册

Download our booklet