What happens when you treat colon cancer?

Treatment for colon cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and supportive care.

Surgery is the primary treatment for colon cancer. The type of surgery performed depends on the location and size of the tumor, as well as the stage of the cancer. Surgery may involve removing the entire tumor or a portion of the colon or rectum. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected organs or tissues.

Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that uses powerful medications to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove. It may also be given after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant radiation therapy) to shrink the tumor and make it easier to remove. It may also be given after surgery (adjuvant radiation therapy) to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Targeted therapy is a type of drug treatment that targets specific molecules or proteins involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. Targeted therapy may be used to treat colon cancer that has spread to other parts of the body.

Immunotherapy is a type of drug treatment that helps the body's own immune system fight cancer. Immunotherapy may be used to treat colon cancer that has not responded to other treatments.

Supportive care is important for managing the symptoms of colon cancer and the side effects of treatment. Supportive care may include pain management, nutrition therapy, counseling, and social work services.