Colorectal Cancer Treatment
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, affecting thousands of people every year. Early detection and advanced treatment options are essential to effectively managing this condition. At Millennium Physicians, our dedicated team of specialists offers personalized care to help ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
What is Colorectal Cancer?
Colorectal cancer refers to cancer that begins in the colon or rectum, parts of the large intestine. It typically starts as small, non-cancerous clumps of cells called polyps that can grow over time into cancer. This type of cancer can develop silently without noticeable symptoms, making early screening and detection crucial. Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers, but with early intervention and advanced treatment options, the prognosis can improve significantly.
What Causes Colorectal Cancer?
The exact cause of colorectal cancer is not fully understood, but several factors can increase the risk of developing the disease. These include age, with most cases occurring in people over 50, as well as family history and genetic factors. Lifestyle choices such as a diet high in red or processed meats, lack of physical activity, and smoking can also play a role. Additionally, conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, can increase the risk. While these factors may contribute, not everyone with them will develop colorectal cancer, and some people with no risk factors may still be diagnosed.
Risk Factors For Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal Cancer Treatment Options
At Millennium Physicians, we offer a comprehensive range of advanced treatment options for colorectal cancer, tailored to each patient’s specific needs. Below are some of the most effective treatments available:
Surgery
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Colectomy: Removal of part or all of the colon. In cases of localized cancer, this may be the primary treatment.
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Laparoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive surgery to remove the tumor with smaller incisions, offering faster recovery times.
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Lymph Node Removal: Often performed alongside colectomy to check if the cancer has spread.
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Colostomy: In some cases, part of the colon is rerouted to an opening in the abdomen if the colon or rectum is removed.
Chemotherapy
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Uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
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Can be administered before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor, or after surgery (adjuvant) to kill remaining cancer cells.
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Sometimes used in combination with radiation therapy for advanced colorectal cancer.
Radiation Therapy
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Uses high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells.
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Often used in conjunction with surgery or chemotherapy to treat advanced or locally invasive colorectal cancer.
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Can be used to alleviate symptoms in advanced stages of cancer.
Targeted Therapy
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Involves drugs that specifically target cancer cells while minimizing damage to normal cells.
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Suitable for cancers that have specific genetic mutations or markers.
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Often used for metastatic colorectal cancer that has spread beyond the colon.
Immunotherapy
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Boosts the body's natural immune system to fight colorectal cancer.
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Immune checkpoint inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab (Keytruda), may be used for advanced or metastatic colorectal cancer with certain genetic mutations.
Personalized Treatment Plans
Our multidisciplinary team works together to create customized treatment plans based on the type, stage of your colorectal cancer, and your overall health and preferences. At Millennium Physicians, we are committed to delivering the most effective treatments with compassionate care for every patient.
Understanding and Managing Risk
The risk of colorectal cancer can be influenced by a combination of lifestyle, environmental, and genetic factors. A diet high in red or processed meats, low in fiber, and lack of physical activity can significantly increase the likelihood of developing colorectal cancer. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also raise the risk, while conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, may increase susceptibility. A family history of colorectal cancer or certain inherited genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome, further heightens the risk.
Managing the risk of colorectal cancer involves making informed lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol use. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopies, are crucial for individuals over 50 or those with a family history of colorectal cancer. For individuals with higher genetic risk, genetic counseling and more frequent monitoring may be recommended.
What is the Survival Rate of Colorectal Cancer?
The survival rate for colorectal cancer varies based on factors such as the stage at diagnosis, the patient's overall health, and how well the cancer responds to treatment. In general, early detection greatly improves the prognosis. According to the American Cancer Society, the 5-year survival rate for colorectal cancer is approximately:
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Local Stage (cancer confined to the colon or rectum): Around 90%
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Regional Stage (cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes): Approximately 71%
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Distant Stage (cancer has spread to other parts of the body): Around 14%
The survival rate is highest for patients diagnosed at an early stage, when the cancer is still localized and can often be treated with surgery and/or chemotherapy. Regular screenings and prompt medical attention significantly increase the chances of early detection.
Overall Survival Rates:
Adenocarcinoma is the most common type of colorectal cancer, with survival rates varying by stage. Early-stage diagnosis offers a high survival rate of around 90%, but survival decreases dramatically if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
Types of Colorectal Cancer We Treat
Adenocarcinoma
This is the most common type of colorectal cancer, accounting for about 95% of all cases. Adenocarcinomas develop in the mucus-producing cells that line the inside of the colon and rectum.
Carcinoid Tumors
These tumors develop from hormone-producing cells in the intestines. While rare, they can form in the appendix, rectum, or colon. Carcinoid tumors tend to grow slowly.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs)
GISTs develop in the connective tissue cells of the digestive tract, most often in the stomach or small intestine, but they can also occur in the colon or rectum. They are a rare form of cancer but can be treated with targeted therapies.
Lymphoma
Although more commonly associated with other parts of the body, lymphoma can occur in the colon and rectum. It is a type of cancer that starts in immune system cells, specifically lymphocytes, and may present with abdominal pain or bloating.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
This rare form of colorectal cancer originates from the squamous cells that line the rectum or anus. It is less common than adenocarcinoma and tends to be more aggressive.
Small Cell Carcinoma
A very rare and aggressive form of colorectal cancer, small cell carcinoma is typically found in the colon or rectum. It is a type of neuroendocrine tumor that can spread rapidly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorectal Cancer
Common early symptoms include changes in bowel habits, blood in the stool, abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. However, some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms, which is why regular screening is crucial.