Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in men and women. It often begins as small, noncancerous “polyps” in the large intestine (colon) that can, over time, become cancerous. There may be few or no symptoms. With regular screenings, polyps can be found and treated early before they turn into cancer.
When colon cancer is suspected, it is vital for patients to receive a precise diagnosis followed by a targeted treatment plan developed especially for them. Virginia Mason colon cancer patients receive care from a skilled and experienced team that includes gastroenterologists, medical oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, radiation oncologists, nutritionists and nurses. Team members work together to personalize each patient’s care, from diagnosis through treatment and recovery, taking into account the patient’s work and personal life. The team answers questions and provides guidance so that patients can make the most informed choices about their care.
To learn more about colon cancer care at Virginia Mason or to make an appointment, please call (206) 341-0060.
Receiving an early and thorough screening when colon cancer is suspected may be the best insurance for surviving and thriving. Test results for any suspected cancer need to be interpreted by experienced and knowledgeable medical specialists, the kind found at Virginia Mason. We screen and treat thousands of patients each year for colon and other gastrointestinal cancers. Studies have shown that patients who are screened and treated at a high-volume medical center like Virginia Mason tend to have better outcomes than those at other places.
If cancer is found, a critical component for determining the best approach to treatment is the accurate “staging” of the cancer. Is it early or advanced? Does the patient need surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy? At Virginia Mason, a combination of endoscopy, MRI, CT and other advanced imaging helps accurately pinpoint the stage of a patient’s cancer so that the most effective treatment will be used. In addition, blood and genetic tests done on the patient’s cancer can help personalize treatment options that may be unique to each person.
These tests are often all done on the same day for a faster diagnosis so that the chosen treatment can begin almost immediately.
With the largest gastrointestinal cancer program in Seattle, Virginia Mason is a leader in state-of-the-art options in endoscopy, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. An added benefit is that our patients receive their care from all their specialists at one time and in one setting.
Virginia Mason is relentlessly devoted to providing exceptional health care — which is why we conduct clinical studies to improve the way we diagnose, treat and prevent disease. Benaroya Research Institute (BRI), oversees all clinical research at Virginia Mason, uniquely combining the expertise of a world-renowned medical research institute with the remarkable care of a health care quality leader.
For more than 20 years, the goal of our clinical research program has been to provide each of our patients with a research option at every step of their disease, from initial diagnosis to long-term follow-up. Our trials include the use of chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies, as well quality of life/symptom management trials. Learn more about our current colon cancer clinical trials.
A cancer care manager is with every colon cancer patient every step of the way, from diagnosis through recovery. The care manager is always available to answer questions and assist in every aspect of care.
New patients often see a physician the same day they call, allowing treatment to begin quickly. Cancer care managers are readily available to answer patient and family questions and to expedite care.
To learn more about colon cancer care at Virginia Mason or to make an appointment, please call (206) 341-0060.