Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer Care at UVM Cancer Center

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States. It begins in the colon or rectum, and is highly treatable when found early.

Why Choose UVM Health?

As a leading gastroenterology program in the region, we offer:

Expert, multidisciplinary team: Your care is delivered by specialists — including colon and rectal surgeons, medical and radiation oncologists, radiologists and pathologists — who work together to design a personalized treatment plan.
Innovation: We participate in national cancer research networks and clinical trials that may offer you additional treatment options.
Minimally invasive procedures: Robotic-assisted techniques allow surgeons to remove cancer through small incisions. This precision typically leads to a faster recovery with less pain and fewer complications.
Patient-first philosophy: We tailor a treatment plan to your needs and goals. Supportive services include cancer rehabilitation, mental health counseling and integrative therapies such as yoga and acupuncture.

Colorectal Cancer Risk Factors

Most colorectal cancers occur in adults age 45 and older, but certain factors can increase risk:

Lifestyle

A diet high in red or processed meats
Lack of physical activity
Tobacco use
Heavy alcohol use
Obesity

Medical & Family History

Personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps
Inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
Certain inherited conditions, such as Lynch syndrome

Colorectal Cancer Symptoms

Colorectal cancer often develops slowly and may not cause symptoms at first. Commons symptoms include:

Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea, constipation or narrowed stools
Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
Stomach discomfort, including gas, cramps or pain
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness
A feeling that the bowel does not empty completely

These symptoms can be caused by conditions other than cancer, but it’s important to talk with your clinician if you notice any changes.

Exceptional Care

Sage's Story: Colorectal Cancer

31-year-old Sage Collins details her experience with colorectal cancer diagnosis and treatment at University of Vermont Cancer Center. "My care team was remarkable. They're so knowledgeable of my disease I felt like I didn't have to do any of the thinking."

Diagnosing Colorectal Cancer

Finding colorectal cancer early saves lives. Screening tests can detect and remove early cancers and precancerous polyps before they become cancer.

Diagnostic testing may include:

Colonoscopy: Gold-standard test that allows doctors to view the colon and remove polyps during the exam
Stool-based tests: Used to look for blood or abnormal DNA in your stool
Imaging tests: CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) may be used in some cases
Biopsy: If a suspicious area is found, a small tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope

Your care team will help determine which test is right for you based on your age, risk factors and symptoms.

Colorectal Cancer Treatment

Treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer and your overall health. Options include:

Surgery: Often the first step for early-stage disease to remove cancerous tissue
Chemotherapy: Helps stop or slow cancer growth, shrink tumors or ease symptoms
Radiation therapy: Uses focused energy to destroy cancer cells and lower the chance of recurrence
Targeted therapy: Also called precision medicine, uses biomarkers to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells
Immunotherapy: Helps your immune system better recognize and destroy cancer cells
Supportive care: Includes nutrition counseling, symptom management, emotional support and coordination across UVM Health locations to help streamline