Options for Colon Cancer Treatment
Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, often begins as a noncancerous polyp in the lining of your colon (large intestine). It develops slowly over a period of 10 to 15 years, which makes regular screenings very important for the early detection and prevention of colon cancer.
Treatment for colon cancer is based on individual factors, including your overall health, how far the cancer has spread, and how well you’re likely to respond to treatment. At Dignity Health, our specialists are experts at diagnosing colon cancer and responding with the personal care you need. To learn about our colon cancer treatment in the Bay Area, Find a Doctor with our online search tool.
Treatment for Colon Cancer at Dignity Health
Dignity Health oncologists in the Bay Area focus on curing the disease or eliminating any signs of it. In addition to using the latest diagnostic equipment and cancer therapies, our surgeons rely on state-of-the-art surgical technology to treat both cancerous and noncancerous tumors.
Depending on the stage and location of the disease, along with your personal preferences, your oncologist may suggest one or more of these ways to treat colon cancer:
- Chemotherapy — drugs that kill cancer cells or stops them from growing
- Radiation therapy — energy that shrinks a tumor before surgery and kills any remaining cancer after surgery
- Targeted cancer therapy — medicines that target specific markers only on cancer cells
- Surgery — the main treatment for all stages of colon cancer
You should talk with your doctor about your options as well as the benefits and risks of each therapy or procedure. Your doctor can give you instructions on how to ease any side effects of treatment. Together, you can create a personalized plan to fit your needs.
Dignity Health hospitals in the Bay Area provide comprehensive cancer care, including colon cancer treatment, in San Francisco, Santa Cruz, and Redwood City.