Comprehensive specialty care for colorectal cancer
Colorectal cancer — commonly referred to as colon cancer — refers to any cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. It’s the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in both men and women in the United States. Luckily, when detected early, colorectal cancers are treatable. In the United States alone, there are more than one million colon cancer survivors.
Early symptoms of colon cancer can include:
- Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, that last more than a few days
- Rectal bleeding with bright red blood
- Blood in the stool, which might make stool look dark brown or black
- Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain
- Decreased appetite
- Unintended weight loss
MultiCare is one of the premier treatment facilities for colorectal cancer in the Pacific Northwest. Our world-class cancer experts deliver state-of-the-art patient care and advanced treatment options in a compassionate, healing environment.
Should you be screened for colorectal cancer?
Getting screened for colon cancer may help save your life. Screening helps identify precancerous growths called polyps that can be easily removed before they develop into cancer. Take our colorectal cancer risk assessment to find out if you should be tested for colorectal cancer.
Diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer
Surgery is often the main treatment for early-stage colon cancers. The type of surgery used depends on several factors, including the stage and extent of the cancer, the location of the cancer in the colon and the goal of the surgery.
When possible, our surgical team utilizes the latest in minimally invasive techniques, which may include laparoscopic surgery, transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS) and robotic procedures. Minimally invasive techniques, which use smaller incisions than open procedures, have many benefits, such as:
- Promoting faster healing and recovery
- Reducing the risk of complications
- Allowing patients to leave the hospital sooner — often within one to two days
In addition to surgery, your treatment plan may include nonsurgical approaches, such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy and hormone therapy. Patients also have access to genetic testing and clinical trials through the MultiCare Institute for Research & Innovation.
Prevention and screening
Colorectal cancer — often referred to as colon cancer — is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States when numbers for men and women are combined. However, you can take steps to help lower your risk and prevent colon cancer from developing.
The American Cancer Society recommends people at average risk start regular screening at age 45. People at increased or high risk may need to start screening earlier.
Learn More About Colorectal Cancer Risks, Prevention and Screening
