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Newly Diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer?

 
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To help make treatment decisions about your colorectal cancer, it’s helpful to first consult with a medical oncologist. As a patient of Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers, you will have access to our colorectal cancer specialists at any of our locations across Colorado, including Boulder, Colorado Springs, and Denver.

While surgery may seem like the logical first step, some cases can benefit from a different approach. Visiting with the medical oncologist first will help determine the best treatment for your particular situation.

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Who is Part of the Colorectal Cancer Care Team?

If you have been recently diagnosed with colorectal cancer, the RMCC team is here to help you every step of the way.  We will not only provide the latest in colorectal cancer treatments, but we also offer various types of support for you and your loved ones. Learn more about what comes next.

See Who's On Your Team Find a Colorectal Cancer Specialist

Can I Wait to Make Decisions About My Treatment?

It's important to make good, informed decisions without delay. However, you shouldn't act so fast that you miss opportunities to listen to your doctor's recommended cancer treatment plan and address any questions or concerns that you may have. Your first step is to schedule an appointment with a gastrointestinal or colon cancer specialist.
Request an Appointment

Understanding Colorectal Cancer

Every colorectal cancer patient will receive a personalized treatment plan based on quite a few different factors. Here are several important aspects of creating a colorectal cancer treatment plan.

What are the Types of Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer is a collective term used to describe cancer that starts in the colon, rectum, or both. These cancers can also be named colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start. 

Types of Colorectal Cancer

What is the Extent of my Colorectal Cancer?

If you have been diagnosed with colon cancer, your doctor will recommend tests to determine if your cancer has spread, and if so, how far. This process is known as staging.

Colorectal Cancer Stages

What are the Treatments for Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Your doctors will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan which may include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or radiation therapy.

Colorectal Cancer Treatments

What Are the Types of Colorectal Cancer Surgeries?

Surgery is often part of the treatment process. The timing and type of surgery vary based on the location and stage of cancer and will be decided together with your oncologist. 

Types of Colorectal Cancer Surgery
Free Guide for Newly Diagnosed Colorectal Cancer Patients
Get helpful tips on what to expect and how to prepare your mind and body for colorectal cancer treatment. 
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Getting Ready for Your First Appointment

The first oncology appointment is often the most difficult one, so we recommend that you take a relative or friend with you as a support partner. Not only will they be there to provide emotional support, but they can also listen and help take notes on all the information you will be receiving. 

Keep a Notebook

As a cancer patient, you’ll receive a lot of information from your oncologist— much of which can be hard to remember. To stay organized, we suggest getting a notebook to keep a record of your important information. This can include how you’re feeling and what medicines or supplements you’re taking, to any questions, thoughts, or observations you have regarding appointments and procedures. Try to put a date on everything you write down to keep your thoughts and notes organized. 

If audio recordings on your phone work better for you, that’s fine too. Just pick one method and commit to using it regularly. Having information well documented can help keep the lines of communication open between you and your doctors.

Ask Questions to Help You Make Decisions

  • Information about any genetic connection your family members may need to consider
  • Your lifestyle (diet, exercise, rest, stress)
  • What to expect during your future appointments
  • Diet and nutrition recommendations. Are there any natural supplements I can or can’t take?
  • Who is involved in the cancer care team?
  • What are my colorectal cancer treatment options, goals, and side effects?
  • Are there any activities to avoid? How about any that you should add to your routine?
  • Are clinical trials an option?
  • Is there access to supportive care?
  • What time frame do I have to make treatment decisions?

Other Questions to Ask About Colorectal Cancer

  • Is it colon cancer or rectal cancer?
  • Will I need more tests?
  • Will I need a colostomy bag? Will it be permanent?
  • Do I need to change my diet?
  • Will cancer treatment affect my daily life? 
  • What are the treatment options for my colon or rectal cancer?
  • What are the side effects of these treatment options? 
  • Does my colorectal cancer treatment plan include surgery?
  • Do my siblings or children have an increased risk of colon or rectal cancer?
  • Should I exercise during chemotherapy or radiation treatments?
  • Will I need to see other medical specialists as part of therapy?

Should You Get a Second Opinion?

Feeling confident about your colorectal cancer diagnosis is extremely important, so many patients choose to get a second opinion before beginning a specific treatment plan. Our physicians provide many second opinions on both colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment options at Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers. Many insurance companies will cover a second opinion assessment, but it is still good to contact your insurance provider for verification of coverage.

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