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Knowing where your tumor is located and which biomarkers you have can help you and your doctor choose the most effective treatment for your specific colorectal cancer.
Understanding the physical structure of the colon and rectum can help you better understand your cancer diagnosis.
The colon and rectum are part of the large intestine (also called the small bowel), which is located at the end of the digestive system. The large intestine is a six-foot-long muscular tube that helps digest food and eliminate waste from the body.
The right side of the colon includes the:
The left side includes the:
Research suggests that there are biological differences between left-sided and right-sided colon cancers. This includes the biomarkers that are present on each side and the aggressiveness of the cancer. Patients with left-sided tumors typically have a better prognosis than those with right-sided tumors.
Make sure you know your biomarkers and where your tumor is located so that you and your doctor can choose the best treatment.
Colorectal cancer that starts on the right side (Cecum, Ascending Colon, Right Half of Transverse Colon, Hepatic Flexure)
Colorectal cancer that begins on the left side (Splenic Flexure, Descending and Sigmoid Colon, Left Half of Transverse Colon, Rectosigmoid and Rectum)
Chemotherapy often leads to temporary hair loss.
You have a choice when it comes to colonoscopy sedation, and we’re here to help make that decision easier.
Statistics suggested that Christy’s odds of survival were grim, so she leaned into her faith and kept a positive outlook. She tried to control what she could. And, critically, she received biomarker testing.