Colorectal Cancer Treatments

Colorectal cancer, which includes colon cancer and rectal cancer, is treated differently depending on the stage. Below are the most common colorectal cancer treatment options currently available in Canada.

TYPES OF TREATMENTS FOR COLORECTAL CANCER

SURGERY

Surgery

The most common treatment for colorectal cancer, surgery involves removing the tumour and surrounding tissue.

CHEMOTHERAPY

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses special drugs to kill cancer cells or slow their growth. It can be systemic (affecting the whole body) or regional (contained to a specific part of the body).

Radiation Image

Radiation Therapy

High-energy rays are used to kill cancer cells. Often used in conjunction with other treatments for colorectal cancer.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy includes newer drugs designed to target specific aspects of cancer cells, inhibiting their growth.

IMMUNOTHERAPY

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy boosts the body’s natural defenses to fight cancer.

CLINICAL TRIALS

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials test new colorectal cancer treatments in humans to determine their safety and effectiveness. They offer critical data for advancing cancer care, guiding patients in making informed choices about their treatment options.

COLORECTAL CANCER TREATMENT OPTIONS AVAILABLE IN CANADA

The type (colon and/or rectal), location, stage of your cancer, the biomarkers expressed in your tumour and your general health will determine which colorectal cancer treatment is best for you. Understanding your treatment options is important so that you can participate in making informed decisions together with your doctors.

Planning cancer treatment can take time. It is always recommended to get a second or even third opinion before embarking on any treatment plan.

YOU WILL NEED TO FIND OUT

  • What treatment choices are available to you at diagnosis
  • How cancer and the specific treatment you will receive may impact your daily life and that of your family
  • What the side effects of colorectal cancer treatment are and how to eliminate or reduce their impact on you
  • What are the possibilities of recurrence of the cancer and how to minimize the possibility of recurrence
  • What the chances are that the treatment will help you

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

This short booklet provides an overview of colorectal cancer and the range of treatments available.

Treatment Options And Healthy Lifestyle For Early Stage Colorectal Cancer

Treatment Options For Recurrent Or Advanced Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer & You

You can participate in your care and make informed decisions if you understand more about your diagnosis and your colorectal cancer treatment options. This publication has been developed to help meet your information needs.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Your healthcare team will work with you to determine the most effective colorectal cancer treatment plan for your situation. The support services that Colorectal Cancer Canada offers include support groups for colorectal cancer patients, patient support services, and more.

Explore our Colorectal Cancer Canada resource library to learn more about colorectal cancer. You are not alone. We are here to help.