Unmet needs in CRC: Survey results offer hope

A colorectal cancer diagnosis can change your life in countless ways — physically, emotionally, and socially. At the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, we’re dedicated to listening to patients and survivors so we can offer the meaningful support they need. Recently, we launched a survey to better understand the biggest unmet needs facing the colorectal cancer (CRC) community. Our findings were presented at the ASCO Gastrointestinal Cancers Symposium last week. 

What We Found

• Feeling Alone: A staggering 74% of participants said they struggled to find someone who truly understands what they’re going through. Even after treatment ends, 41% felt support from others dropped off significantly.
• Quality of Life Impacts: Beyond the immediate stress of treatment, many participants reported long-term challenges like fatigue (54%), high stress (51%), and changes in their sex life (80%).
• Other Areas Affected: The ripple effects extend into daily life—64% reported a negative impact on their career, 65% on their social activities, and over half on dating and relationships

Why It Matters
These findings shed light on the depth of psychosocial and physical needs faced by CRC patients and survivors. We now have tangible data showing that life after diagnosis can be isolating and that support is needed far beyond the doctor’s office.

Armed with these insights, the Alliance is committed to creating new support programs, resources, and clinical strategies to better serve our community. Whether it’s connecting you to a Buddy through our peer support program or offering guidance through treatment and beyond, we want to ensure no one faces colorectal cancer alone.

“We believe these survey results will spark meaningful changes in CRC care and provide renewed hope,” said Kim Newcomer, an Alliance staff member who presented posters at ASCO GI. “If you’re a part of our community, thank you. Your voice helps shape the future of support and care for everyone impacted by CRC.”