However, individuals with risk factors should begin checkups earlier, have them more often, and generally undergo a more thorough test such as colonoscopy that assesses the entire colon and rectum. Treatment depends on a number of factors, including the general health of the patient and the size, location, type, and extent of the tumor. Doctors classify the cancer into different stages based on the information and choose different treatments for them. These can be surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Surgery is the main form of treatment in most patients with colorectal cancer.
Doctors often combine two or more methods to treat more advanced cancers.
Patients are generally treated by a team of specialists, which may include a radiologist, gastroenterologist, a colorectal surgeon or surgical oncologist, a medical oncologist, and a radiation oncologist. March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Also, communication with your physician is extremely important. He or she can answer questions about colorectal cancer. This is an educational service and advice presented should not take the place of an examination by a physician.