Colon & Rectal Cancer
Access the latest treatments for cancer care.
With an increasing prevalence of colon cancer, the collaborative team at Novant Health focuses on helping you determine your risk factors and detect potential colon cancer and rectal cancer early. If you receive a diagnosis for colon or rectal cancer, our team of medical oncologists will listen to your needs and map out the best treatment plan for you. Our colorectal surgeons use the latest minimally invasive procedures ease your healing.
What is colon cancer?
Colon cancer originates in the large intestine, known as the colon. Colon cancer generally begins as polyps, a group of cells that form on the interior of your colon. As you age, the risk of polyps turning cancerous increases, although colon cancer can occur at any age. Because it's unusual to notice early symptoms, we advise getting screenings as recommended by your primary care provider.
What is rectal cancer?
Rectal cancer originates in the rectum, the final portion of the large intestine that connects the colon to the anus. Although similar to colon cancer, treating rectal cancers requires different strategies. Screenings can be one of the most important ways to monitor or detect rectal cancer.
What is anal cancer?
Anal cancer is less common than colon cancer or rectal cancer. The anus works with the colon and rectum as part of your digestive system. If you experience sign of anal cancer, such as bleeding and pain, you should contact your primary provider. Your provider may recommend a full colorectal cancer screening.
Colorectal Cancer Screening Procedures For Prevention, Early Detection
Colorectal Cancer Treatment
If your screening reveals cancer, you will be supported by a compassionate, collaborative team of colorectal cancer experts. This multidisciplinary team, which includes your oncologists, surgeons, pathologist, radiologist, genetic counselors and nurse navigator, will meet weekly to review your treatment plan, evaluate your progress and determine next steps.
You’ll receive an individualized treatment plan. Most colon and rectal cancers begin with surgery. Depending on the location and stage of cancer, your treatment may involve one or more of the following.
Why Choose Novant Health?
Accredited by multiple national organizations, including the Commission on Cancer and the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI®), your Novant Health physician is committed to providing excellence in cancer care. You can feel confident that you will be supported throughout your cancer journey by a specialized team of experts focused on your specific needs. We work in state-of-the-art cancer care centers that are among the best in the country.
Your cancer journey is unique. That’s why our nationally recognized cancer teams work with you to develop a personalized care plan. At Novant Health, you’ll have access to the most current treatment options available only at leading cancer institutes. Your treatment may include clinical research trials or robotics, microsurgeries, new radiation technologies, or cellular and immune therapies. Together, we can treat your cancer, manage your symptoms, and provide you with support at all stages.
You're not alone on your cancer journey. At Novant Health, rest assured you’ll have all the resources you need to tackle your life-changing diagnosis. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach brings together experts with knowledge from different specialties to support you every step of the way. In addition to oncologists, radiologists, and surgeons, your team may include nurse navigators, nutritionists, integrative medicine specialists, genetic counselors, social workers, symptom management and palliative care specialists, and more.
Nationally Recognized Care
As leading cancer care providers in North Carolina, Novant Health is recognized nationally for treatments and quality:
- Commission on Cancer (CoC)
- National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer Accreditation (NAPRC)
- Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI)
- National Cancer Institute (NCI) Community Oncology Research Program
- Southeast Clinical Oncology Research Consortium (SCOR)
- Foundation for the Accreditation of Cellular Therapy (FACT) accredited for cellular and immunotherapies
Why consider genetic testing?
Identifying cancer before it has a chance to spread is one of the best ways to increase the chances of successful treatment. Genetic testing and counselling may help determine whether you're at high risk of developing certain types of cancer, especially those that may run in your family like colon, rectal and anal cancer.
Receive remarkable care from a team of specialists
Receive nationally recognized care from our colorectal cancer specialists at locations near you. Having earned Commission on Cancer accreditation from the American College of Surgeons, you'll have access to the highest level of care from a specialty-focused team that includes:
- Colorectal surgeons
- Oncologists
- Pathologists
- Radiation oncologists
- Certified Ostomy Nurse
You’re Entitled to a Second Opinion.
Are you concerned or confused about a cancer diagnosis or treatment recommendation you've received?
Another perspective on your case and options can give you some peace of mind. Reach out for a virtual session or in-person consultation.
Experience the Future of Cancer Care, Today.
Together, we can beat cancer. Clinical research studies drive breakthroughs in the prevention, detection and treatment of many cancer conditions.
If eligible to join a clinical trial, you could access new cancer treatments before they’re available to the general public. Explore clinical trials and speak with your cancer team to see if any are right for you.
Search for Clinical Trials at Novant Health