Comprehensive care for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers, but early detection and advanced treatments improve outcomes. Our team provides expert care from screening to survivorship, with the latest in minimally invasive surgery, targeted therapies and personalized treatment plans.

Our multidisciplinary approach brings together colorectal surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, GI specialists, radiologists, pathologists, genetic counselors and medical geneticists, nurse navigators, nutritionists and supportive care providers — all focused on helping you move forward.

Understanding colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum, often beginning as polyps that become cancerous over time. While the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing this disease.

Risk factors include:

  • Age (most cases occur in individuals over 50, but rates are rising in younger adults)
  • Family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, sometimes caused by an inherited cancer genetic predisposition gene
  • Inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis)
  • Lifestyle factors that may increase risk such as low fiber diet, smoking, alcohol use, and inactivity
Colorectal cancer symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer include:

  • Persistent changes in bowel habits
  • Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Unexplained weight loss

If you notice any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor about screening options.

Colorectal cancer treatment and therapies

Options include colectomy (colon resection), proctectomy (rectal resection), and transanal resection for smaller, early-stage rectal cancer.

If you are facing a more advanced cancer, our expert team also performs complex surgeries including liver resection, HIPEC/PIPAC and more extensive pelvic surgery. HIPEC/PIPAC delivers heated chemotherapy directly into the abdominal cavity after a tumor is removed in order to target microscopic cancer cells left behind, minimize recovery time and reduce recurrence.

We use molecular profiling to determine if you would  benefit from certain treatments, which helps to reduce unnecessary side effects.

We use monoclonal antibodies and other drugs to target specific markers on cancer cells to stop growth and spread.

Our experts are skilled in delivering immunotherapy to help the immune system recognize and attack colorectal cancer cells.

Our radiation team uses advanced radiation therapies to treat rectal cancer or inoperable cases, often paired with chemotherapy or targeted approaches.

Colorectal cancer tests and screenings

Screening can prevent colorectal cancer or catch it early when it is most treatable. We follow American Cancer Society and ACG guidelines recommending screening begin at age 45, or earlier for patients with elevated risk. We offer:

Gold standard screening that allows for detection and removal of precancerous polyps during the same exam

For high-resolution imaging and staging, especially of rectal cancers

Provide detailed images to inform diagnosis and surgical planning

Identifies genetic mutations and markers to personalize treatment

Why choose Endeavor Health?

Endeavor Health delivers expert colorectal cancer care with compassionate support and advanced technologies.

You benefit from regular tumor board reviews and personalized treatment planning from a wide range of experts.

You are paired with a dedicated nurse navigator to coordinate your care and receive day-to-day support.

We use genetic and molecular testing to customize your treatment and minimize side effects.

From robotic surgery to therapeutic endoscopy and Y-90 liver-directed therapies, we offer the latest treatment innovations.

Care team

Our colorectal cancer team includes fellowship-trained surgeons, GI specialists, medical and radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, nurse navigators, genetic counselors, social workers and dietitians — all working together to provide expert, team-based care.

Find a doctor

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Colorectal cancer FAQs

Changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding and persistent abdominal discomfort may indicate colorectal cancer.

Screening should begin at age 45 for most adults. If you have a family history or other risk factors, your doctor may recommend earlier screening. Additional colonoscopy will be recommended based on findings from your initial colonoscopy as well as family history and other factors.

Yes. We offer laparoscopic and robotic-assisted procedures that promote faster recovery and fewer complications. We also perform incision-free transanal excisions for early-stage rectal cancer and precancerous polyps.

We offer nurse navigation, nutrition guidance, social work support, genetic counseling and survivorship planning.

Our combination of academic-level innovation, supportive care and team-based expertise allows us to deliver truly personalized treatment.

Doctors researching illustration

Clinical trials & research

Endeavor Health participates in groundbreaking clinical trials through national oncology clinical trial cooperatives — such as NRG Oncology, ECOG-ACRIN and Alliance — as well as our own investigator-initiated studies. We also offer innovative opportunities through the Kellogg Cancer Center’s personal genomics program and comprehensive biobank. These resources expand options for diagnosis, treatment and survivorship across cancer types.

Learn more about clinical trials

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Colorectal cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. Schedule a screening or consultation with our specialists.

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Your care journey is our mission

The Endeavor Health Cancer Institute is committed to delivering personalized, innovative care for colorectal cancer, combining world-class expertise with advanced technologies and compassionate support.

About the institute