Video library

Colorectal health, explained

43 short videos on the conditions patients ask about most — what they are, why they happen, and what treatment actually involves. Recorded and reviewed by Dr. Kamrava.

• Abnormal Cells and HPV: Understanding AINThis video explains Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (AIN), a condition where cells in the anal canal lining appear abnormal. It is defined as a precancerous condition and is very similar to cervical dysplasia. AIN is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), particularly high-risk types like HPV 16 and 18. Cell changes exist on a spectrum, classified as low-grade lesions (LSIL) or high-grade lesions (HSIL), with doctors primarily focusing on treating HSIL to prevent progression to cancer. Diagnosis starts with anal cytology (similar to a Pap smear). If abnormal cells are found, a High-Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) and biopsy are performed for a definitive diagnosis. Treatment options are personalized: low-grade AIN often involves observation, while high-grade AIN is treated by removing abnormal cells using topical or ablative therapy. Long-term surveillance and follow-up are essential due to the potential for recurrence. The HPV vaccine is highlighted as a powerful tool for prevention.
• Colorectal Cancer Basics: Prevention, Screening, and TreatmentThis guide covers the essentials of colorectal cancer, which is the third most common cancer globally, emphasizing that it is often preventable and highly treatable if caught early. Colorectal cancer is a cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon and rectum) when errors (mutations) in the genes cause cells to grow and divide out of control. Most cases (about 80%) are sporadic, while approximately 20% are inherited. The cancer typically begins as a benign growth called a polyp, and the slow progression from polyp to cancer (which takes several years) offers a critical "window of opportunity" for screening and prevention. Current recommendations suggest starting screening at age 45 for people at average risk. Treatment is personalized based on the cancer stage and genetic makeup, utilizing tools such as surgery (the cornerstone), chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy.
• Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (Lynch Syndrome): Understanding Your Family's Cancer RiskThis explainer details Lynch syndrome, which is the most common type of hereditary colorectal cancer, though it accounts for only about 3% of all colorectal cancer cases. It is a genetic condition that increases cancer risk. The root cause is a glitch in a "spell checker" gene within the mismatch repair (MMR) system, allowing genetic typos to accumulate and eventually leading to cancer. Current guidelines recommend universal screening (testing the tumor tissue) for everyone diagnosed with colorectal cancer to identify the faulty gene. Lynch syndrome carries the highest risk for colorectal cancer and the second highest risk for endometrial/uterine cancer in women. Management involves aggressive, proactive surveillance: colonoscopies start in the early 20s and are performed every 1 to 2 years, which can significantly improve life expectancy. Lynch-related cancers are often highly susceptible to modern immunotherapy drugs.