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Treatments for Colorectal Cancer

Authors:
  • Michelle Badash, MS
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Treatments for Colorectal Cancer

The goal of treatment is to remove most or all of the cancer. This may also keep cancer from spreading or coming back. When possible the colon and rectum will be preserved so that they can still work as they should. The most common treatment is surgery, but other methods are often used. The treatment plan is based on the type of colorectal cancer, age, general health, and outlook. Palliative care can also be helpfull for those with severe and later stages of cancer.

The care team will be made up of doctors, surgeons, nurses, and pharmacists. It is important to stay in touch with your care team, follow the course of treatment, and go to appointments to get the best outcomes.

Colorectal cancer treatment includes:

Surgery

Chemotherapy

Radiation

Medications

Treatments for many cancers are always changing. Some have yet to be found. As a result, clinical trials exist around the world. You may wish to ask your doctor if you should enlist in a clinical trial. You can find out about them at the US National Institutes of Health website.

References

  • Colorectal cancer. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/colorectal-cancer. Updated July 24, 2019. Accessed August 21, 2019.
  • Colon cancer treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/colon-treatment-pdq#section/_135. Updated May 15, 2019. Accessed August 21, 2019.
  • Treating colorectal cancer. American Cancer Society website. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/colon-rectal-cancer/treating.html. Accessed August 21, 2019.
  • Treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/colon-treatment-pdq#section/_135. Updated May 15, 2019. Accessed August 21, 2019.
  • Treatment option overview. National Cancer Institute website. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/types/colorectal/patient/rectal-treatment-pdq#_135. Updated May 16, 2019. Accessed August 21, 2019.

Contributors

  • Mohei Abouzied, MD
Last Updated:
2023-06-01

(C) Copyright 2023 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.