Colorectal Cancer
Besides skin cancers, colorectal cancers are the third most commonly diagnosed cancers in the United States, which includes colon cancer. The team at Charleston Oncology specializes in diagnosing and treating colon cancer in both men and women with an eye toward early intervention. If you’re at risk for colon cancer or have a diagnosis, call to find out about the latest treatments.
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WHAT TO EXPECT FROM COLON CANCER CARE AT CHARLESTON ONCOLOGY
DETECTING THE ROOT CAUSE
Colon cancer, like many other cancers, remains somewhat of a mystery when it comes to its underlying cause. While some individuals are more at risk due to inherited gene mutations, these cases are rare. The vast majority of colon cancers arise from acquired gene mutations that may be influenced by diet, environment, obesity, and lifestyle factors. The bottom line is that medical researchers still aren’t certain what directly causes colon cancer—but significant progress has been made in early detection and prevention through advanced screening.EARLY DETECTION AND SCREENING
The first and most effective line of defense against colon cancer is early detection. Through a colonoscopy, your doctor performs a detailed visual examination of your colon to identify any growths, or polyps, which may become precancerous or cancerous over time. During this procedure, your doctor can remove larger polyps and have them tested for any signs of cancer. For most people, the first colonoscopy should occur at age 50—or earlier if you have a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors. Based on your results, your doctor will recommend a schedule for follow-up screenings to ensure ongoing protection and peace of mind.UNDERSTANDING THE STAGES OF COLON CANCER
There are four stages of colon cancer, each representing how far the disease has progressed:- Stage I – Cancer is confined to the superficial lining of your colon.
- Stage II – Cancer has invaded the wall of your colon.
- Stage III – Cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
- Stage IV – Cancer has spread to distant parts of your body.
PERSONALIZED COLON CANCER TREATMENT PLANS
In the early stages of colon cancer, your physician may be able to remove cancerous or precancerous polyps during your colonoscopy or through a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure. For more advanced stages, your treatment plan may include one or a combination of the following therapies:- Chemotherapy: Medications designed to destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery depending on your diagnosis.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams target and destroy cancer cells, often used when the cancer has spread beyond the colon or to help shrink tumors before surgery.
- Immunotherapy: Harnesses your body’s own immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells, offering new hope for certain advanced or treatment-resistant cases.
- Targeted Drug Therapies: Precision-based medications that identify and attack specific genetic or molecular features of your cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy cells.
MULTIDISCIPLINARY AND INNOVATIVE CARE
Colon cancer treatment often requires a team-based approach, and at Charleston Oncology, collaboration is at the core of what we do. Our medical oncologists, hematologists, radiation specialists, and surgeons work seamlessly together to coordinate your care through every phase of treatment. Through our partnership with Roper St. Francis Cancer Care, patients benefit from a fully integrated care network designed to support every aspect of their health—physical, emotional, and psychological. From diagnosis through recovery, our multidisciplinary team ensures your journey is guided with precision and compassion.TAKE THE NEXT STEP
Your treatment, your choice—it all starts with understanding your options. At Charleston Oncology, we’re here to help you every step of the way. Schedule an appointment with one of our colon cancer specialists today to explore the care, expertise, and innovation that make Charleston Oncology a trusted leader in cancer treatment.CONTACT US TODAY
Discover the compassionate, advanced care waiting for you right here in Charleston. Request an Appointment | Learn More About Our Treatments | Meet Our TeamWhen I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I felt like my whole world stopped. But from the moment I walked into Charleston Oncology, I knew I was in the right hands. The doctors explained everything clearly and made me feel like I wasn’t just another patient — I was part of their family.
Sarah T – Breast Cancer Survivor
What are the Different Types of Breast Cancer?
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How is Breast Cancer Treated?
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Medical Oncology and Hematology Specialists located in Downtown Charleston, North Charleston, West Ashley, Mt. Pleasant, Summerville & Walterboro, SC.
Stories from our Patients
Our patients share their journey with newly diagnosed patients. Here their inspirational stories and advice
during the fight against liver cancer.
Read the Blogs
The Importance of Subspecialization in Oncology: Our Commitment at Charleston Oncology
The Importance of Subspecialization in Oncology: Our Commitment at Charleston OncologyAt Charleston Oncology, we know that a cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming. For most patients, the search for the right doctor quickly becomes one of the most important steps on...
Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: What You Should Know
Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers: What You Should KnowAt Charleston Oncology, we understand that lung cancer is often linked to smoking, but it’s important to remember that lung cancer can affect anyone, even those who have never smoked. As part of Lung Cancer Awareness...
Why Early Detection Matters: Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines By Age
Why Early Detection Matters: Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines By AgeBreast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women, but it is also one of the most treatable when found early. Early detection is the single most powerful tool we have in the fight against...
Voted Best In Charleston
Charleston Oncology – Best Oncology Practice
With over 100 years of combined experience, the team of hematologists and oncologists at Charleston Oncology, a department of Bon Secours St. Francis Hospital, is proud to be named HealthLinks Magazine’s Best Oncology Practice.
David Ellison, M.D. – Best Oncologist
Honored as Best Oncologist, Dr. David Ellison is a past recipient of the Physician Champion Award from the Roper St. Francis Foundation, founding chairman of the Lowcountry Komen for the Cure Foundation, and principal investigator for several groundbreaking cancer drug clinical trials.
