Newly Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer?

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. You may alternate between feeling intense emotions such as panic, outrage, anger, guilt, or in some cases, despair. You can manage your emotions by gathering accurate information, resources and support.

Before you begin any treatment, the first step will be to learn more about your colorectal cancer so that you understand the treatments available to you as well as their potential side effects. To help you navigate these important discussions with your care team, download our Newly Diagnosed Patient Question List below.

When you first hear the diagnosis of colorectal cancer, a natural reaction may be to seek immediate treatment. But colorectal cancer usually grows slowly, and in many cases, immediate treatment is not needed. It is more important to take the time to learn about your options, gain perspective and seek additional information or opinions if necessary before deciding on a course of colorectal cancer treatment.

Today there are more colorectal cancer treatment options available, and your preferences and values are very important in selecting the right ones for you. Your doctor will inform you about the pros and cons of each option, and you will work with them to agree on an approach including the optimal sequencing of therapies. Furthermore, depending on your diagnosis, you may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial – a possible treatment option that can offer access to promising new therapies and therapeutic approaches at any cancer stage.

If at any time you have questions or are confused by a treatment option, be sure to ask! Being as informed as possible can be helpful during this process.