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Colorectal cancer

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Multidisciplinary approach to diagnose and treat colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women, with an estimated lifetime risk of 1 in 24 for men and 1 in 26 for women. These statistics underscore the critical importance of routine screening for early detection and prevention. Most colorectal cancers begin as benign polyps that slowly develop into cancer over time. Regular screening—through colonoscopy, stool-based testing, or other approved methods—can identify and remove these precancerous growths before they become malignant or detect cancer at an early stage when it is most treatable.

Early intervention not only improves survival rates but also reduces the need for more aggressive therapies later. Current guidelines recommend beginning colorectal cancer screening at age 45 for average-risk individuals, with earlier or more frequent screening advised for those with specific risk factors, including a family history of colorectal cancer, certain hereditary syndromes, or personal history of inflammatory bowel disease. A colonoscopy remains the gold standard for screening, as it allows both detection and removal of polyps during a single procedure.

At Loyola, our gastroenterologists emphasize the importance of individualized screening plans and encourage patients to stay informed about their risk factors for colon cancer. Regular screening is a proven, life-saving strategy that can significantly reduce the burden of colorectal cancer. For more information, please refer to our comprehensive colorectal cancer screening guidelines.

What conditions are treated by colon cancer specialists?

The clinical specialists at Loyola are experts at diagnosing and managing patients with the following conditions:

How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?

Doctors at Loyola are trained to recognize colorectal cancer symptoms, and are committed to the expert diagnosis and care of our patients. Colorectal cancer symptoms may include the following:

  • A change in bowel habits
  • Blood in the stool
  • Anemia
  • Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty all the way
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent bloating
  • Stools that are narrower than usual
  • Vomiting
  • Weight loss

A patient’s personal family and medical history, symptoms and physical exam may aid in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer. If cancer is suspected, your doctor may order additional testing, which can include:

  • Colonoscopy to visualize the colon and remove polyps or sample mass lesions in the colon
  • CT (computed tomography) scan to visualize the colon and abdomen for any irregularities
  • Digital rectal exam or rectal ultrasound to evaluate for masses in the rectum
  • Stool based tests to detect blood in the stool


Our focus also includes the prevention of colon cancer utilizing screening techniques. The tests and schedule may include:

  • Colonoscopy, every 10 years
  • CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy), every five years
  • Fecal immunochemical test/fecal occult blood test, every year
  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy, every five years
  • Stool DNA tests, every 3 years 

 How is colorectal cancer treated?

Loyola is recognized for its multidisciplinary Gastrointestinal Oncology Center, which provides access to medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, colon and rectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, radiologists, pathologists and geneticists. Our experienced team of colon and rectal surgeons are skilled at treating all types of colorectal cancer.  
   
Colorectal (bowel) cancer treatment is specific to each individual patient, and depends on the size, type, location and stage of the cancer. In most cases, one of the following treatment options will be offered:

  • Chemotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Cryosurgery
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • Surgery
  • Targeted radiation therapy

Our multidisciplinary team of specialists collaborates to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s specific diagnosis and overall health. From minimally invasive surgical options and cutting-edge chemotherapy and radiation therapies to comprehensive supportive care and follow-up surveillance, Loyola is committed to delivering compassionate, evidence-based care at every stage of the journey. Our goal is not only to treat cancer effectively but also to support each patient’s recovery, quality of life, and long-term wellness. 

Colorectal cancer research and clinical trials

As part of an academic medical center, our faculty members educate and train medical students and surgical residents, and are actively engaged in research that leads to better treatments and patient care for colorectal cancer.

Loyola’s Division of Gastroenterology and Nutrition team has extensive experience in clinical care and clinical research. Advancements and active research include:

  • The impact of diet on colon cancer outcomes
  • Utilization of colonoscopy for the detection of precancerous polyps
  • Improving colon cancer screening intervals with colonoscopy
  • Detecting individuals at higher risk for colon cancer
  • Improving patient access to colon cancer screening
  • Implementing electronic reminders for colon cancer screening

Our program continues to maintain an active research presence with participation in clinical trials, treatment registries, as well as patient opportunities to be part of a research database to ultimately help improve patient outcomes measured by not only treatment success, but also by high quality, efficient care delivery and patient satisfaction.

As a patient at Loyola, you will have access to leading-edge treatments and a broad menu of clinical trials. 

Cancer cell

Request a New Patient Appointment or Second Opinion

At Loyola, we provide the most advanced cancer treatments available, using the latest research and advanced technology to help treat body, mind and spirit. Request an appointment today with a Loyola Medicine cancer specialist.

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