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.

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
1. Prevents Spread to Other Parts of the Body
Detecting colorectal cancer at stage 0 is crucial because abnormal cancer cells remain confined strictly to the innermost lining of the colon or rectum.
At this stage, the cancer has not invaded the deeper layers of the bowel wall, nor spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. This early containment significantly lowers the risk of complications like metastasis, which happens when cancer cells travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to distant organs such as the liver or lungs.
Why Early Detection Matters
Because the cancer stays localized, doctors can treat it more simply and effectively. Patients diagnosed with stage 0 colorectal cancer usually have an excellent prognosis and a very high survival rate.
By contrast, when colorectal cancer reaches later stages—like stage IV colon cancer, where cancer has spread widely—treatment becomes more complicated, and the chances of long-term survival drop significantly.
Early detection plays a vital role in stopping cancer from becoming more aggressive and life-threatening.
2. Minimizes Need for Aggressive Treatment
At stage 0, colorectal cancer can often be completely removed through a minimally invasive procedure called a polypectomy, which is performed during a routine colonoscopy.
This procedure involves excising the abnormal growth or polyp containing cancer cells before it has the chance to invade surrounding tissues.
Benefits of Early-Stage Treatment
Because the cancer has not spread beyond the superficial layer, patients typically do not need additional treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or major surgery, which are common for more advanced stages.
Avoiding these aggressive treatments not only reduces physical side effects like fatigue, nausea, or surgical risks but also helps preserve the patient’s quality of life.
Early-stage treatment often means a quicker recovery time and less emotional and financial stress, allowing patients to return to normal daily activities faster.
3. Lowers Risk of Recurrence and Future Cancer
Even after successful treatment of stage 0 colorectal cancer, there remains a risk of developing new polyps or cancer in the future.
Regular follow-up screenings, such as periodic colonoscopies, are essential to monitor the colon and rectum for any new abnormal growths.
Taking Control of Your Health
Additionally, early diagnosis offers patients the opportunity to adopt healthier lifestyle changes that can further reduce the risk of future colorectal cancers.
Recommendations often include increasing dietary fiber intake, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco use, and limiting alcohol consumption.
These preventive strategies not only help minimize the chance of recurrence but also contribute to overall long-term colorectal health.
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.
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.
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.


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.
EXCELLENT Based on 114 reviews Tan CG2025-03-14Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was diagnosed with the cancer of salivary gland more than 14 years ago. After my surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, I came under the care of Dr Christina Ng at Onco Life Centre. Dr Ng is very careful and detailed in monitoring my condition. I have undergone periodical blood tests and scans and so far, thankfully, there is no cancer relapse. Right now, I only follow up with Dr Ng once a year. Cher Kong Sek2025-03-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was diagnosed with advanced colorectal cancer about 2 years ago. I had undergone surgery (anterior resection) in early 2023. During surgery, my cancer was found to have invaded my bladder. A year later in 2024, my cancer relapsed with spread to lungs. I had immediately made an appointment to see Dr Christina Ng at Onco Life Centre. After a clear & indepth explanation, Dr Ng had promptly arranged for me to undergo a chemoport insertion. Dr Ng started me on a combination of IV targeted therapy and chemotherapy. After 3 months of treatment under Dr Christina Ng, my PET-CT scan showed an excellent treatment outcome. Two of my right lung lesions had completely resolved, whilst the other two have shrunken in size. After completing 6 months of treatment, Dr Christina had arranged for me for my residual lung metastases to undergo ablative therapy which was successfully executed. I am positive of seeing a continuous improvement in my condition under the care of Dr Christina Ng and her team at Onco Life Centre. KM Yong2025-03-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 大约8个月前,我被诊断出患有肺癌。我最初见到的几位医生告诉我,我的肺部肿瘤位于左肺门区域,紧邻一条大主动脉,这使得任何活检尝试都是一个非常高风险的手术。此外,我曾经并且现在仍在服用两种不同的血液稀释剂来治疗我的心脏病。我决定在 Google 上搜索肿瘤科医生,就这样我在 Onco Life Centre 遇见了 Christina Ng 医生。吴医生立即为我安排了 CT 引导下的活检程序,并仔细计划了暂停使用血液稀释剂的日期。活检结果证实了我的小细胞肺癌的诊断。 Christina Ng 医生向我详细解释了治疗方法及其相关风险后,开始让我接受免疫疗法和化疗相结合的治疗。我对 Christina Ng 医生非常有信心,因为她能够快速计划必要的诊断程序来确认我的肺癌类型,并迅速开始我使用正确的抗癌药物。我最近的 PET-CT 扫描报告显示我的肺癌已完全消退。我和我的家人对如此好的治疗结果表示由衷的感谢。感谢Onco Life团队对我们的照顾。 Michael Yap2025-03-10Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 我的父亲是淋巴结癌的幸存者。最初他在吉隆坡一家医院接受治疗,但由于出现很多并发症而停止了治疗。后来他的病情恶化,我们决定去 Onco Life Centre 咨询 Christina ng 医生。在那里,我父亲接受了静脉注射靶向治疗和化疗相结合的治疗。经过几个月的治疗后,他做了一次扫描。我们很高兴扫描结果显示他的淋巴结、腹膜和肺部的癌症已经完全消退。 First One Print2025-03-07Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was diagnosed with ER/PR +ve, and HER2 -ve breast cancer more than 6 years ago. I was referred to see Dr Christina Ng, the oncologist practising at Onco Life Centre in Bangsar South. After surgery, I had undergone chemotherapy under the care of Dr Christina for 6 months. After chemo, I was switched to a 5 year course of hormonal injection and tablet . My yearly scans have shown that there is no cancer relapse. I have been able to run my business & live a normal life throughout my treatment journey for which I am very grateful to Dr Christina and her medical team at Onco Life Centre. Joan Chong2025-03-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 一年前我被诊断出患有第四期肺癌。根据我的癌症基因组学评估,Christina Ng 医生立即开始给我服用口服靶向治疗药物。开始治疗 8 个月后,Christina Ng 医生增加了化疗。一年后,我的疾病恢复良好。在医生的照顾下,我感到很安全,因为她密切监视我,并根据我的病情和进展调整药物治疗。即使在门诊时间之后,我也可以通过 Onco Life Centre 的支持热线远程联系医生,这也很有帮助。 Sarah Wong2025-03-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My mother was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer about one year ago. The cancer had already spread to her lungs, liver, heart, brain and bones at the time of diagnosis. She had shortness of breath due to fluid in her right lung, pneumonia and fluid around her heart. Upon initial assessment by Dr Christina Ng, my mother was quickly started on a combination of IV targeted therapy and chemotherapy in view of her acute symptoms. She was later switched to an oral targeted therapy based on her tumor’s molecular profile. Her symptoms rapidly resolved soon after treatment was started. Serial CT & bone scans have shown very marked & significant improvements in all areas of her disease sites. She is able to live a normal life, we just spent Chinese New Year together as a family, not knowing if this was even possible one year ago. We are truly grateful to Dr Christina Ng to for my mother’s excellent progress. Kee Cheng Teik2025-02-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My wife was diagnosed with rectal cancer about 3 years ago. Additionally, she has had a history of breast cancer 14 years and was treated in Singapore. She underwent preoperative radiotherapy prior to rectal surgery at a hospital in KL. She was subsequently referred to Dr Christina Ng for further postoperative treatment. At our first consult with Dr Christina Ng, she had explained in detail to us about the status of my wife's illness, the treatment approach, including the risks and benefits. The treatment period was about 6 months at Onco Life Centre. In the last 2 years after completion of treatment, a series of PET-CT scans have confirmed no relapse of cancer. We are thankful to be under the care of Dr Christina Ng & her team. Dr Christina Ng is very detailed, careful and proactive to prevent any adverse conditions. Janny Ng2025-02-21Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My mother is a rectal cancer survivor for more than 6 years now, under the good care of Dr Christina Ng at Onco Life Centre. We got to know about Dr Christina Ng by recommendation. My mother was ill when she first saw Dr Ng, with rectal bleeding & symptoms of obstruction. My mother had initially received a course of chemotherapy and thankfully, the side effects were well managed by Dr Christina. We had regular and easy access to Dr Christina whenever my mother was not feeling well during the treatment period, which was very reassuring. After a course of upfront chemo, her rectal cancer had responded well, following which Dr Christina had arranged for my mother to undergo preoperative radiotherapy. After my mother had recovered from the effects of radiotherapy, Dr Christina referred her to a colorectal surgeon who had recommended an abdominal perineal resection. Very thankfully, the histopathology report had shown the cancer had been completely cleared up. Over the past 4 to 5 years, my mother has been very well and now sees Dr Ng only for follow up every 6 months. We are truly grateful to Dr Christina Ng and her team for giving my mother a second lease of life. siti noradila2025-02-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We are from Perak and my mother was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer about 3 months ago at a private hospital in Taiping. Dr Christina Ng had explained the urgent need for PET-CT and MRI scans. Her initial symptoms include nose bleed, blocked nose, dizziness & ringing in my right ear. The scan reports were ready within 2 days. Dr Christina patiently detailed to us what the reports meant & what needed to be done. She gave us very good guidance on how to navigate this very challenging journey of fighting cancer. Right now, my mother is feeling much better as most of her cancer symptoms are resolved. Her nose is no longer blocked, her appetite is very good, she no longer experience dizziness anymore. A repeat CT scan showed an excellent result as the tumour deposits in her nasopharynx & all her neck nodes are almost completely resolved. We are very hopeful that my mother's condition will improve further under the gentle care of Dr Christina Ng.
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.
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.


NSCLC (Non-small cell lung cancer)


2010 Breast and Lung Cancer Awareness Campaign (LEMBAH PANTAI)


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


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


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


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


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


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


Credentials You Can Trust

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

DR. CHRISTINA NG VAN TZE
CONSULTANT MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST (NSR: 131550)
MBBS (MELB), FELLOW RACP (AUS)

DR. JOSEPH KANIANTHRA JOSEPH
CONSULTANT MEDICAL ONCOLOGIST (NSR: 124660)
MBBCH, BAO (IRE), MRCP (UK)
Service Area

Onco Life Centre location
Download our booklet
about Colorectal cancer for FREE
