Overview
Read about cancer treatment options listed by gene mutation, type of cancer and type of treatment.Stay up to date on research and information
Sign Up for FORCE NewslettersThe Basics of Colorectal Cancer Treatment
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Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the and type of the disease based on pathology results. You can learn more in-depth information about how doctors colorectal cancers here. Make sure that you receive a copy of your cancer test results, including your and your . For people with or advanced colorectal cancer, additional testing beyond is usually recommended. See below for more information on these additional tests.
Types of treatment
Standard treatment may include a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Some people may also benefit from or . You can learn about these therapies here. Clinical trials may be available for any of cancer.
Additional tests
Tumor testing and genetic testing can provide additional clues about which treatments may work best for your cancer. If you test positive for an linked to colorectal cancer, your results may also help you and your relatives learn about risks for future cancers and ways to manage these risks.
Ask your doctor to explain your diagnosis, test results and treatment options in terms that you can understand. This will allow you to work with your doctor to choose the best treatment for you.
Get Support
The following organizations offer peer support services for people with or at high risk for colorectal cancer:
- FORCE peer support
- Visit our message boards.
- Once you register, you can post on the Diagnosed With Cancer board to connect with other people who have been diagnosed.
- Sign up for our Peer Navigation Program.
- Users are matched with a volunteer who shares your mutation and situation.
- Join our private Facebook group.
- Find a virtual or in-person support meeting.
- Join a Zoom community group meeting.
- LGBTQIA
- Men
- American Sign Language
- People of Color
- Visit our message boards.
- Colorectal Cancer Alliance
- AliveAndKickn for people with
Related Resources
The following resources focus on colorectal cancer.
- FORCE colorectal cancer resources:
- Information: Colorectal cancer screening and prevention
- Information: Colorectal cancer treatment
- XRAY reviews: Colorectal cancer
- Video: What's New in Colorectal Cancer Treatment?
- Video: Colorectal Cancer Screening and Prevention in High-risk Individuals
- Video playlist: Colorectal cancer
- Blog category: Colorectal cancer
- The American Cancer Society has a page that outlines the benefits and limitations of different types of colorectal cancer screening.
- Colorectal Cancer Alliance is a nonprofit organization with a focus on colorectal cancer treatment, detection and prevention.
- The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has a free patient guide for people with colon cancer.
- United Ostomy Association of America provides resources and support for people who have undergone surgery with an ostomy.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Colorectal Cancer Control Program provides grants to state departments of health to increase awareness and access to colorectal cancer screening.