Colorectal Cancer
One of the most preventable cancers. Also one of the most treatable when caught early.
Screening finds and removes precancerous polyps before they ever become cancer. When a cancer is already there, modern surgery and treatment give most patients excellent outcomes.
Colorectal cancer develops in the colon or rectum, the final sections of the digestive tract. It's the third most common cancer diagnosed in men and women in the United States. Most colorectal cancers start as small polyps on the inner lining of the colon or rectum and grow slowly over years, which is why regular screening works so well: most polyps can be found and removed before they ever turn cancerous.
Concerned about symptoms, risk factors, or due for screening? Book a consultation.
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Common Symptoms
Early colorectal cancer often has no symptoms at all, which is why screening is so important. When signs do appear, they typically include:
A persistent change in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or changes in stool shape)
Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
Persistent abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort
A feeling that the bowel doesn't fully empty
Unexplained weight loss
Unexplained fatigue or weakness
Iron-deficiency anemia, often found on routine bloodwork
These symptoms overlap with many benign conditions, so they're not automatic cause for alarm. But they're worth checking out, especially when persistent.
Risk Factors
According to the CDC, several factors raise your risk of developing colorectal cancer. About 5% of colorectal cancers are clearly hereditary, but understanding your personal risk profile helps determine the right screening schedule.
Age
Risk rises with age. Current US guidelines recommend starting screening at age 45 for average-risk adults.
Family history
A family history of colorectal cancer or precancerous polyps significantly raises personal risk, often prompting earlier screening.
Personal history
Previous polyps, prior colorectal cancer, or long-standing inflammatory bowel disease elevates risk.
African-American ethnicity
Higher incidence and earlier-onset colorectal cancer compared to other groups.
Lifestyle factors
Obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, heavy alcohol use, and a diet high in red and processed meats or low in fiber all contribute to higher risk.
Type 2 diabetes
Linked to a moderately higher risk of colorectal cancer.
Genetic syndromes
Inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) carry a much higher lifetime risk and require earlier, more frequent screening.
Screening saves lives: Colonoscopy can find and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancer. For most adults, screening should begin at age 45. Earlier screening is recommended if you have a family history, a personal history of polyps, or other risk factors. Talk to Dr. Chung about the right schedule for your situation.
When Caught Early, Outcomes Are Strong
~91%
Five-year survival rate when colorectal cancer is found and treated before it spreads. Catching it early changes the entire trajectory.
How Colorectal Cancer Is Diagnosed
During your initial consultation, Dr. Chung will thoroughly review your medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. Diagnostic testing typically includes:
Colonoscopy with biopsy
The gold standard. A flexible scope examines the full colon and rectum, and suspicious tissue is biopsied during the same procedure.
Imaging studies (CT, MRI, PET)
Used to stage the cancer and determine whether it has spread beyond the colon or rectum. Critical for planning treatment.
Blood tests
Include a complete blood count to check for anemia and tumor marker tests like CEA that can help monitor disease.
Stool-based tests (FIT, Cologuard)
Common screening options that detect signs of cancer or precancerous changes in stool samples. A positive result requires follow-up colonoscopy.
Treatment Options
Surgery is often the primary treatment for colorectal cancer, with the specific approach depending on the stage, location, and size of the tumor. Depending on the case, treatment may also include chemotherapy, radiation, or immunotherapy.
Polypectomy
Earliest stage
Removal of polyps during colonoscopy. Often sufficient for polyps with early cancerous changes contained within the polyp itself.
Local excision
Small, confined tumors
Used primarily for rectal cancers confined to a small area. The tumor is removed through the anus or a minimal incision, preserving surrounding healthy tissue.
Colon or rectal resection
More advanced disease
A portion of the colon or rectum is removed along with nearby lymph nodes. Healthy ends are reconnected when possible. Partial or complete removal may be needed depending on the extent.
Minimally invasive surgery
Surgical approach
Many resections can be performed laparoscopically or robotically, using small incisions and specialized instruments. Generally means less pain, smaller scars, and faster recovery.
Dr. Chung specializes in robotic-assisted colon and rectal cancer surgery using the da Vinci system, which offers a level of precision and visualization that traditional approaches can't match. For detail on each surgical approach, see the dedicated pages below.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
Recovery timelines vary based on the procedure and your overall health. Dr. Chung will provide detailed postoperative care instructions covering wound care, dietary recommendations, activity restrictions, and follow-up schedules. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor recovery and watch for signs of recurrence.
Many patients return to light activities within a few weeks of minimally invasive surgery, and to full activity within 6 to 8 weeks depending on the procedure.
For More Detail
Get an expert evaluation
Whether you're due for screening, working through a new diagnosis, or seeking a second opinion on your treatment plan, Dr. Chung can help you understand your options and choose the right path.
Book a consultation
Call (714) 988-8690
