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Colorectal cancer goes
undetected until it's diagnosed.

Our all-female team of physicians, nurses, and surgeons are experts in diagnosis and treatment.

If you're over 40,
get a checkup today.

About colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that can occur in the colon or the rectum. It starts as a small, noncancerous growth called polyps on the lining of the colon, which can turn into cancer over time. To prevent this, doctors can perform a colonoscopy, which is a test that looks for these polyps and removes them before they become cancerous.

Getting a colonoscopy can also help doctors catch colon cancer early, which can increase the chances of survival by 90%. It is recommended that people over 40, those who are obese or have diabetes, and those with a family history of colorectal cancer get screened regularly.

Get screened

Colorectal Cancer in Numbers

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Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in Abu Dhabi and worldwide.
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More than 80% of all colorectal cancers are found in men and women who are 40 years and older
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95% percent of the colorectal cancer cases are curable if detected early
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Our 2022 Colorectal Cancer survey found that:

88% of people indicated that they have never been screened for colorectal cancer
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Our 2022 Colorectal Cancer survey found that:

36% of those who had undergone screening only went once per year
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Our 2022 Colorectal Cancer survey found that:

63% of people indicated that a lack of symptoms is the key reason why they would not undergo screening

Diagnostic Care at SSMC

In line with our deeply rooted values focused on always putting your needs first, we offer a comprehensive, compassionate and multidisciplinary approach that incorporates all available therapies to ensure you get the best possible preventive and corrective care in the region.

We offer a range of diagnostic tests, depending on individual symptoms and history.

Colonoscopy to screen for colon cancer and​ to explore possible causes of abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, and other intestinal problems.

Get screened

GI Genius Technology - AI-Powered Screening

A cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) system used to perform gastrointestinal endoscopy procedures for the diagnosis of colon polyps, the GI Genius technology offers one of the highest accuracies in polyp detection compared to other diagnostic technologies, minimizing the risk of fatalities from colon cancer by 50%.

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Treatment Options

Our multidisciplinary team of gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and other specialists ensures you receive comprehensive, innovative, and supportive care.

Our multidisciplinary female-only team consists of skilled specialists dedicated to providing personalized care tailored to women's unique needs, bringing expertise and empathy to every aspect of diagnosis, treatment, and support.

Our surgical treatment options include the full range of laparoscopic and robot-assisted colorectal procedures, which reduce pain, blood loss, and recovery time and help patients preserve normal function and avoid colostomy bags.

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Why Choose SSMC?

Innovative procedures

One of only 3 centers in the UAE to offer robotic-assisted colorectal surgery.

Modern technology

Equipped with AI-led technology including the GI Genius to offer more accurate diagnostic results to prevent colorectal cancer before it develops.

Specialized care

Our multidisciplinary team, offers the highest standard of medical care in treating complex cancer conditions.

Patient Success Stories

Due to feeling tired and having abnormal black stool, I went to the hospital in 2017 and did a general check-up. For fear of discovering a serious disease, I did not see any other physician to complete the investigations and screening. After 2 years, I experienced immense pain in my abdomen whenever I drank water or ate. Upon examination, it was confirmed that I have colon cancer that had spread to my liver at its last stages. In 2020, I did an additional surgery to remove a quarter of my liver followed by HIPEC in order to increase recovery chances. I am currently living with the disease; I urge everyone to start screening at the age of 40 and not to ignore the symptoms to prevent the cancer from developing. Early detection will improve the chances of recovery before it is too late. During the course of my journey, art has helped me get out of this world and heal my pain – my positivity and love for life helped me to keep going until now.

- Ayman, 56 years old
After I went to a clinic because of stomach pain, I was referred to SSMC’s GI clinic with Dr. Inas Mikhail. A colonoscopy was recommended, and they discovered the polyps during the procedure using AI Genius for better detection. As a result, Dr. Inas Mikhail, Dr. Noura Al Ali and Dr. Robert Church asked me to undergo surgery immediately to remove the polyps. Following the diagnostic tests done by Dr. Najla, the polyps appeared to be precancerous. It would have been necessary for me to undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy if the precancerous polyps had developed into cancerous ones without early screening. Screening regularly can help detect cancer early, enabling easier and better treatment; it is important even if no symptoms are present.

- Huda, 45 years old
I visited SSMC's Emergency Department due to excruciating pain in my abdominal area. I was diagnosed with appendicitis and underwent surgery for that. During the surgery, the general surgeon discovered a tumor in my colon. Dr. Noura Al-Ali and Dr. Faek Al Jamali, both general and colorectal surgery consultants at SSMC, performed a robotic-assisted right hemicolectomy with complete mesocolic excision and resection of the terminal ileum following my appendectomy. I am so grateful for the vigilance the team at SSMC displayed. Had it not been for them, I would have never known or would have found out when it was too late.

- Bedoor Alhammadi, 25 years old
After facing persistent colorectal-related symptoms, I decided to visit a gastroenterologist at SSMC where I was asked to get a colonoscopy. Following my screening, I was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. The diagnostic care I received as SSMC helped me get the treatment I needed. I am currently receiving two doses of chemotherapy at SSMC, and my care team there keeps me hopeful.

- Fareed Jaafar, 70 years old
After a lengthy battle with painful symptoms, I gave in to my fear of hospitals and consented to get a colonoscopy done. The screening detected a tumor that needed both surgery and chemotherapy to treat. Not only was my surgery successful at SSMC but also the medical team responsible for treating me has been so supportive throughout my journey, and for that I am very grateful.

- Nassra Alyahyaei, 50 years old

FAQs about colorectal cancer

  • Can anyone develop colorectal cancer?

    Colorectal cancer can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity. However, the risk increases with age and certain lifestyle factors such as smoking, obesity, and a diet high in red or processed meats.

  • Is colon cancer hereditary?

    While most cases of colorectal cancer are not directly inherited, some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to the disease. A family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) can increase the risk.

  • What symptoms are an indication to visit the doctor?

    Symptoms such as persistent changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, abdominal discomfort or pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue should prompt a visit to the doctor for further evaluation.

  • Are all polyps cancerous?

    No, not all polyps degenerate into cancer. However, certain types of polyps, particularly adenomatous polyps, have a higher risk of becoming cancerous if left undiagnosed and untreated.

  • How are polyps removed?

    Polyps are typically removed during a colonoscopy using specialized tools such as a snare or biopsy forceps.

  • Is monitoring necessary following the removal of a polyp?

    Yes, individuals who have had polyps removed are usually advised to undergo regular colonoscopies to monitor for the development of new polyps or signs of colorectal cancer.

  • Should my children undergo a colonoscopy if I had colon cancer in the past?

    It's recommended that individuals with a family history of colorectal cancer or polyps get screened frequently.

  • What is laparoscopic surgery?**

    Laparoscopic surgery, also known as minimally invasive surgery, is a technique where small incisions are made in the abdomen, and specialized instruments are used to perform surgical procedures, including the removal of colon cancer.

  • Will I have to undergo a colostomy?

    In some cases of advanced colorectal cancer, a colostomy may be necessary, where a portion of the colon is brought to the surface of the abdomen to create a stoma for waste elimination. However, not all patients require a colostomy.

  • Will I be given chemotherapy?

    The decision to administer chemotherapy depends on various factors, including the stage and characteristics of the cancer. It may be used before or after surgery or in cases of advanced disease to help shrink tumors or relieve symptoms.

  • Will I be given radiotherapy?

    Radiotherapy may be used in the treatment of colorectal cancer, particularly in cases where the cancer has spread or cannot be removed surgically. It may be given alone or in combination with other treatments.

  • Is there such a thing as personalized therapy?

    Personalized therapy, also known as precision medicine, involves tailoring treatment based on the specific characteristics of a patient's cancer, such as genetic mutations or biomarkers. This approach can help optimize treatment outcomes and minimize side effects.

  • Can you live without a colon?

    Yes, it is possible to live without a colon. Surgical procedures such as a colectomy may be performed to remove part or all of the colon, with the remaining portions of the digestive tract reconnected.

  • Can you survive colon cancer?

    Survival rates for colon cancer vary depending on factors such as the stage of the cancer, treatment received, and individual factors. With early detection and appropriate treatment, many individuals with colon cancer can survive and live fulfilling lives.
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If you are over 40,
get a check-up today.

Book your screening today

© 2024 Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City. All Rights Reserved.

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The colonoscopy tradeoff: 30 minutes for a lifetime

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer worldwide – and is the third most common cancer in Abu Dhabi and worldwide. Unlike many other cancers, it's preventable with regular screening.

Despite how prevalent colorectal cancer is in the region, only a shocking 36% of people aged 40 and above undergo their regular screening. There's a host of reasons for these statistics: 55% of Emiratis reported that they avoid screening due to fear of pain (the procedures are actually painless when done under anesthesia/sedation), the discovery of diseases and embarrassment. While these feelings are understandable, the importance of regular screening can't be understated.

Who's at risk?

Given that colorectal cancer is common, almost everyone is at risk and should get screened. While some risk factors can be controlled (such as diet and exercise) others cannot.

While you can't control risk factors such as having a family history, it doesn't mean you're destined to develop colorectal cancer; you can still screen regularly to detect the pre-cancerous polyps early.

Changing lifestyle habits isn't easy; you'll have to learn to replace unhealthy choices with less harmful ones. But remember – the short-lived dopamine hit you get from tobacco, alcohol and processed food isn't worth sacrificing your health.

Detect or prevent: a win-win situation

Even if you've never had a colonoscopy, you're probably familiar with the term (one that's usually considered a pretty awkward topic of conversation).

Since symptoms of colorectal cancer don't typically show until the disease has advanced to a less treatable stage, a 30-minute colonoscopy detects colorectal cancer at an early stage, which can actually prevent it.

“There are real barriers and misconceptions that prevail when it comes to screening for this cancer, which is a true challenge”, says Dr. Michael Wallace, consultant and chair of the Gastroenterology and Hepatology Division at SSMC, “however, if colorectal cancer is detected early, up to 95% of cases are curable. SSMC is one of the leaders in high-quality colonoscopy. We monitor all internationally accepted standards for excellence and also provide state-of-the-art technologies. Our FDA and UAE-approved Artificial Intelligence technology, known as GI Genius, significantly enhances our ability to safely detect the presence of pre-cancerous polyps in the colon, which reduces the risk of death by at least 50%.”

No matter what the outcome of the colonoscopy is, you won't regret it; you'll either be relieved that potential signs of colorectal cancer were caught before they advanced, or have peace of mind in knowing that none exist.