The 20 Best Colorectal Cancer Doctors Near Me in District of Columbia, US

Find the Top Colorectal Cancer Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 81 doctor with experience in Colorectal Cancer near District of Columbia, US. Of these, 56 are Experienced, 17 are Advanced, 6 are Distinguished and 2 are Elite.

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81 providers found
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer

    MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute At MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

    3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Benjamin Weinberg is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Weinberg is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Vertebroplasty.

    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer

    MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

    3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    John Marshall is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Marshall is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 15 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatectomy, and Hepatectomy.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Sibley Memorial Hospital

    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Michael Pishvaian is the director of Gastrointestinal, Developmental Therapeutics and Clinical Research Programs for the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in the Greater Washington Area and an associate professor at the School of Medicine. Dr. Pishvaian is a fellowship-trained gastrointestinal oncologist specializing in pancreatic and refractory colorectal cancers. He is committed to precision medicine and provides his patients with the most appropriate and advanced level of care. He conducts all phases of clinical trials for all GI cancers and enrolls qualifying patients. Click here to learn more about oncology clinical trials the Greater Washington Area. Dr. Pishvaian is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 26 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pancreatic Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Pancreatectomy. Dr. Pishvaian is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology Oncology | Oncology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology Oncology | Oncology

    Sibley Memorial Hospital

    5255 Loughboro Road Northwest, Building B, Building B, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Bruce R. Kressel, M.D., is a medical oncologist at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center at Sibley Memorial Hospital and an instructor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. In addition to an expertise in breast and lung cancer, Dr. Kressel has an expertise in gynecologic oncology and general medical oncology, with specific focuses on hematologic malignancies including lymphoma, leukemia and myeloma. Dr. Kressel earned his medical degree at Tufts University School of Medicine. He completed a residency in internal medicine at George Washington University School of Medicine, followed by a fellowship in hematology and oncology, also at George Washington University School of Medicine. Dr. Kressel completed a fellowship in oncology at the Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center as well. Dr. Kressel has been regularly named one of America’s Top Doctors and one of America's Top Doctors for Cancer by Castle Connolly. He has also been named a Top Doctor in the Washington D.C. and Washington-Baltimore areas by Castle Connolly, as well as a Top Doctor by Consumers’ Checkbook Magazine and Washingtonian Magazine. Dr. Kressel is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Society of Hematology. Dr. Kressel has contributed to numerous publications, presentations and clinical trials. Dr. Kressel is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 62 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Essential Thrombocythemia, Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma, Gastric Lymphoma, Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL), and Splenectomy. Dr. Kressel is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer

    Sibley Memorial Hospital

    5255 Loughboro Road Northwest, Building B, Building B, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Valerie Lee, M.D., is a medical oncologist with the Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Sibley Memorial Hospital, as well as an instructor of medical oncology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Lee has an expertise in management of gastrointestinal malignancies, including gastric, colon and pancreatobiliary cancers. Dr. Lee earned her medical degree from the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. She completed a residency in internal medicine at New York Presbyterian Hospital, followed by a fellowship in medical oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. Lee is currently earning her Certificate in Science of Clinical Investigation at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Dr. Lee is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Dr. Lee manages multiple early phase trials and her work has been published in peer-reviewed journals. Her research interests include clinical trials for patients with gastrointestinal malignancies, and combining traditional chemotherapies with immunotherapy to improve survival and quality of life for patients. She has received a Cancer Center Training grant for research on molecular targets for cancer detection and treatment and has spoken at numerous conferences on updates in gastrointestinal malignancies. Dr. Lee is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer). Dr. Lee is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Hu Faculty Practice Plan-Gastroenterology

    2041 Georgia Ave NW Ste 5000, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Adeyinko Laiyemo is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Laiyemo is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    MedStar Health: MedStar Georgetown Cancer Center At MedStar Washington Hospital Center

    110 Irving St NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Chukwuemeka Ihemelandu is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Ihemelandu is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Appendix Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Bladder Reconstruction, and Colostomy.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery

    Sugarbaker Hong Surgical Associates PC

    106 Irving St NW Ste 3900, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Paul Sugarbaker is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Sugarbaker is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 4 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pseudomyxoma Peritonei, Colorectal Cancer, Stomach Cancer, Endoscopy, and Pancreaticoduodenectomy.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Office

    110 Irving St NW Ste 2A38, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    David Perry is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Perry is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Anal Cancer, and Pancreatic Cancer.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    MedStar Health Gastroenterology At MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

    3800 Reservoir Rd NW Bldg 2 Rm 2210, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Thomas Loughney is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Loughney is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 15 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Interventional Radiology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Interventional Radiology

    MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

    3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Emil Cohen is an Interventional Radiologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Cohen is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Liver Embolization, and Gastrostomy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery

    MedStar Health: Colon And Rectal Surgery At MedStar Washington Hospital Center

    106 Irving St NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    James Fitzgerald is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Fitzgerald is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 8 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Colorectal Cancer, Anal Cancer, Rectal Prolapse, Ileostomy, and Hernia Surgery.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery

    MedStar Health: Colon And Rectal Surgery At MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

    3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Anne Fabrizio is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Fabrizio is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 1 other condition, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Rectal Prolapse, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colostomy, and Endoscopy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery

    3800 Reservoir Road NW, Pasquerilla Healthcare Center 4

    3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Zhifei Sun is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Sun is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Hemorrhoids, Anal Cancer, Colostomy, and Pancreaticoduodenectomy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery

    Office

    106 Irving St NW Ste 2100, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Jennifer Ayscue is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Ayscue is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 8 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Encopresis, Bowel Incontinence, Rectal Prolapse, Hernia Surgery, and Ileostomy.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Sibley Memorial Hospital

    5255 Loughboro Road Northwest, Building B, Building B, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Arabic

    Khaled M. El-Shami, M.B.Ch.B., Ph.D., is a medical oncologist at Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center at Sibley Memorial Hospital, as well as an assistant professor of oncology in the Division of Hematologic Malignancies at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Listen to Dr. El-Shami's Cancer Matters podcast episode to learn more about his work. Dr. El-Shami's clinical interests are in hematologic malignancies, including leukemias, lymphomas and myelomas.. Dr. El-Shami graduated from Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine in Alexandria, Egypt, where he did a residency in the Department of Neurosurgery. He was a Chevening Scholar as a M.S. student in molecular genetics at the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom, as well as a Sam Cohen Windhoek Scholar as a Ph.D. student in cancer immunology at the Weizmann Institute in Israel. Dr. El-Shami also completed a residency in internal medicine at George Washington University School of Medicine, a fellowship in tumor immunology and biology at the National Cancer Institute, and a fellowship in medical oncology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. Dr. El-Shami previously served as faculty at Georgetown University and George Washington University. Dr. El-Shami has been named a Top Doctor by Washingtonian Magazine for several years. Dr. El-Shami is a member of the American Association for Advancement of Science, the American Association of Cancer Research, the American Association of Immunologists, the American Society for Gene Therapy and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Dr. El-Shami's research focus is on hematologic malignancies, including acute and chronic leukemias, myelodysplastic syndromes, myeloprolifetive neplasms and lymphomas. He has received the National Institutes of Health Clinical Research Scholars Award, an American Medical Association Seed Grant and an American Society of Clinical Oncology Merit Award. Dr. El is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 26 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Large-Cell Immunoblastic Lymphoma, Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), Acute Myeloblastic Leukemia without Maturation, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Surgical Oncology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Surgical Oncology

    Sibley Memorial Hospital

    5255 Loughboro Road Northwest, Building B, Building B, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Greek

    Dr. Michail Mavros, a surgical oncologist specializing in complex cancers, is deeply committed to offering his patients personalized, advanced care. Originally from Athens, Greece, Dr. Mavros's passion for oncology was sparked during medical school after losing a close friend to cancer. This life-changing event inspired him to dedicate his career to improving the lives of cancer patients. Dr. Mavros is one of few surgeons with accredited subspecialty training in both complex surgical oncology and hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgery, making him highly qualified to treat cancers of the liver, pancreas, and bile ducts. He is also skilled in minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgery, which offer benefits such as faster recovery, reduced pain, and improved outcomes. At the heart of Dr. Mavros' approach is his belief in individualized care. He works closely with a multidisciplinary team of experts, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and pathologists, to ensure each patient receives a thorough evaluation. This collaborative approach results in comprehensive, personalized treatment plans. By leveraging the latest advances in precision medicine, Dr. Mavros tailors his treatments to meet the unique needs of each patient, guided by the most current scientific research and evidence-based practices. Dr. Mavros is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 7 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Neuroendocrine Tumor, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Pancreatectomy. Dr. Mavros is board certified in American Board Of Surgery.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Interventional Radiology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Interventional Radiology

    Sibley Memorial Hospital

    5255 Loughboro Road Northwest, Ground FL, Ground FL, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Andrew Akman, MD, MBA a native of Washington, DC, currently practices at Suburban Hospital, Sibley Hospital, and Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Akman performs a variety of minimally invasive procedures. He has specific interest in complex IVC filter removals, interventional oncology, pulmonary embolism, and prostate artery embolization. Dr. Akman is an expert in complex IVC filter retrieval and IVC filter related complications. In addition to standard IVC filter retrievals, he removes devices that are severely tilted, embedded, or fractured, as well as those designated as permanent devices. He serves as an adviser to other physicians on complex techniques including laser sheath and forceps assisted retrieval. Within interventional oncology, Dr. Akman performs thermal ablation of lung, liver, and kidney tumors. He performs chemoembolization and radioembolization (Yttrium-90) on primary liver cancer and metastatic liver disease. Dr. Akman also performs prostate artery embolization, an emerging minimally invasive technique for treating urinary symptoms associated with prostate enlargement. Dr. Akman prides himself on building strong relationships with his patients and practicing patient-centered medicine. Videos Andrew Akman, M.D., Interventional Radiologist Recent News Articles and Media Coverage Honoring a Life By Helping Others, Johns Hopkins Medicine, (July 20, 2022). Dr. Akman is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 13 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Ascites, Ureterocele, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Gastrostomy, and Liver Embolization. Dr. Akman is board certified in American Board Of Radiology.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology

    MedStar Georgetown Cancer Institute At MedStar Georgetown University Hospital

    3800 Reservoir Rd NW, 
    Washington, DC 
    Experience:
    18+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Marcus Noel is a Hematologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. He has been practicing medicine for over 18 years. Dr. Noel is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 14 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer), Neuroendocrine Tumor, and Tissue Biopsy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Surgical Oncology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Surgical Oncology

    Hu Faculty Practice Plan-Surgery Oncology

    2041 Georgia Ave NW Fl 2 Ste 2322, 
    Washington, DC 
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Quyen Chu is a Surgical Oncologist practicing medicine in Washington, Washington, D.c.. Dr. Chu is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 19 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Breast Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Mastectomy, and Pancreatectomy.

    Showing 1-20 of 81

    Last Updated: 04/28/2026

    What is the definition of Colorectal Cancer?

    Colorectal cancer (CRC), also known as colon cancer, is a cancer that occurs in the large intestine (colon) or rectum and is the third most diagnosed cancer in the U.S., appearing more frequently in older men and women over the age of 50. Colorectal cancer often begins with appearance of small, non-cancerous (benign) growths (polyps) in the lining of the colon that are without symptoms. Some of these polyps can eventually develop into tumors and become colorectal cancer. Not all polyps become cancerous. The risk of polyps developing into cancer depends on the type of polyps, of which there are two main types:   1) Adenomas are considered pre-cancerous because they sometimes become adenocarcinomas, which represent 96% of colorectal cancers. 2) Hyperplastic and inflammatory polyps occur more often and are usually non-cancerous. Additional risks for polyps becoming cancerous include their size, number, or whether they have abnormal cells. If a polyp does become cancerous, the cancer can spread into the lining of the colon or rectum, and eventually through other layers. Once inside the wall of the colon or rectum, the cancer can then spread into the blood vessels and lymph system (nodes) or other, distant parts of the body (metastasis).  A few other, less common colorectal cancers include: Carcinoid Tumors that arise from hormone-producing cells in the colon. Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GISTs) that arise from special cells in the lining of the colon, and which can be either cancerous or non-cancerous (benign); however, GISTs do not commonly appear in the colon. Lymphomas, which are cancers that begin in lymph nodes. Sarcomas, which begin in the blood vessels, muscles, or connective tissues, and rarely appear as colorectal cancers. Colorectal cancer is classified based on the following stages: Stage 0 – Carcinoma in Situ: abnormal cells may be found in the lining (mucosa) of the colon or rectum. Stage I – Cancer has formed in the lining (mucosa) of the colon or rectal wall and has spread to the submucosa (outer layer) or the muscle layer. Stage II (IIA, IIB, IIC) – Cancer has spread through the muscle of the colon or rectum to the outer layer (serosa); Cancer has spread through the outer layer (serosa) to the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum); Cancer has spread through the outer layer (serosa) to other organs. Stage III (IIA, IIIB, IIIC) – Cancer has spread through the mucosa (inner layer), submucosa (outer layer), or muscle layer of colon or rectum, or through the colon or rectal wall to four-to-six lymph nodes; Cancer has spread through the mucosa (inner layer), submucosa (outer layer), or muscle layer of colon or rectum, or through the colon or rectal wall to the mucosa that lines the abdomen (peritoneum) and one-to-three lymph nodes, or four-to six lymph nodes, or seven or more lymph nodes; Cancer has spread to the mucosa lining the abdomen (peritoneum) and four-to six lymph nodes, or seven or more lymph nodes, or to nearby organs. Stage IV (IVA, IVB, IVC) – Cancer has spread to one area or organ not near the colon or rectum, such as liver, lung, ovary, or distant lymph node; Cancer has spread to more than one area or organ, such as liver, lung, ovary, or distant lymph node; Cancer has spread to the lining of the wall of the abdomen (peritoneum) and may have spread to other organs. The level of staging for colorectal cancer determines its treatment and outcomes (prognosis).

    What type of doctors treat colorectal cancer?  

    Colorectal cancer is treated by a team of specialists who collaborate to create the best care plan. Key doctors include: 

    • Colorectal surgeons: These specialists perform surgeries to remove cancerous tissues from the colon or rectum. They also handle complications or follow-up surgeries if needed. 
    • Medical oncologists: These doctors use treatments like chemotherapy, targeted therapy, or immunotherapy to manage cancer, especially if it has spread. 
    • Radiation oncologists: They use radiation therapy to shrink tumors or destroy cancer cells. Radiation is often used for rectal cancer. 
    • Gastroenterologists: These doctors focus on diagnosing and treating digestive system disorders. While they perform colonoscopies to detect cancer, they do not treat it. 

    A colorectal doctor typically refers to a colorectal surgeon, while a gastroenterologist focuses on diagnosing and managing digestive disorders. 

    What are the symptoms of colorectal cancer? 

    Colorectal cancer can cause different symptoms that vary from person to person. Common symptoms include: 

    • Persistent changes in bowel habits, like diarrhea, constipation, or stools that are narrower than usual 
    • Blood in the stool, which may appear bright red or dark 
    • Abdominal pain, cramping, or discomfort that doesn’t go away 
    • A feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely after a bowel movement 
    • Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite 
    • Fatigue or weakness 

    Blood in the stool or subtle changes in bowel habits may be early warning signs of colorectal cancer. However, most people do not notice their symptoms until the cancer has progressed. That’s why regular screenings, such as colonoscopies starting at age 45 or earlier for high-risk individuals, are important for early detection.  

    How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?  

    Colorectal cancer diagnosis involves a combination of screening tools and diagnostic tests

    • Colonoscopy: A thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the colon to check for abnormalities. If polyps or suspicious areas are found, a biopsy can be taken for testing. 
    • Stool-based tests: These include fecal occult blood tests (FOBT) or fecal immunochemical tests (FIT), which check for hidden blood, and stool DNA tests, which look for abnormal DNA changes. 
    • CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy): A less invasive imaging test that uses CT scans to create detailed pictures of the colon and rectum. 
    • Blood tests: While blood work, such as a carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test, can suggest cancer, it cannot confirm the diagnosis. Blood tests are often used to monitor the cancer’s progress or recurrence. 

    What can colorectal cancer be mistaken for?  

    Colorectal cancer can develop over many years without obvious symptoms. Some patients were misdiagnosed in the early stages of their cancer because their symptoms were similar to those of common health conditions, such as: 

    • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A disorder causing abdominal discomfort, bloating, and changes in bowel habits. 
    • Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus that can cause rectal bleeding. 
    • Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of small pouches in the colon. 
    • Infections: Intestinal infections can mimic symptoms like diarrhea or abdominal pain. 

    What is the life expectancy for someone with colorectal cancer?  

    The life expectancy for colorectal cancer depends on several factors, including the stage at diagnosis, overall health, and response to treatment.  

    The survival rates based on cancer stages are: 

    • Localized (early stage): If the cancer is confined to the colon or rectum, the 5-year survival rate is about 91%. Early detection offers the best chance for successful treatment. 
    • Regional spread: When cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes or tissues, the 5-year survival rate drops to about 72%. 
    • Distant spread (metastatic cancer): If the cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the liver or lungs, the 5-year survival rate is approximately 15%. 

    These survival rates are averages, and outcomes will vary from person to person. Advances in treatment options, including targeted therapies and immunotherapy, continue to improve prognosis for many patients. 

    When should I see a Colorectal Cancer doctor in District of Columbia, US?

    There are various reasons why you may want to see a specialist, such as: 

    • Your primary care provider recommends it. 
    • Your condition requires expert knowledge and specialized care. 
    • Your symptoms persist or worsen despite treatment. 
    • You need specialized testing or procedures. 
    • You want a second opinion.  

    What should I consider when choosing a Colorectal Cancer doctor in District of Columbia, US?

    It’s important to see a provider with expertise in your specific condition. Each provider profile in MediFind’s doctor database includes information on which conditions they treat, years of experience, research contributions, languages spoken, insurance plans accepted, and more.  

    How does MediFind rank Colorectal Cancer doctors in District of Columbia, US?

    MediFind’s rankings are based on a variety of data sources, such as the number of articles a doctor has published in medical journals, participation in clinical trials and industry conferences, as well as the number of patients that provider sees for a given condition. Note that MediFind’s provider database is not based on user reviews, and providers do not pay to be included in the database. 

    What types of insurance are accepted by Colorectal Cancer doctors in District of Columbia, US?

    Most profiles in MediFind’s doctor database include a list of insurance plans accepted by that provider. However, it’s a good idea to contact the provider’s office to make sure they still accept your insurance, then doublecheck by contacting your insurance plan to confirm they’re in network. 

    How can I book an appointment online with a Colorectal Cancer doctor in District of Columbia, US?

    MediFind offers direct scheduling for certain providers using the “Request Appointment” button on that provider’s profile. If the schedule option is not available for a provider, tap the red “Show Phone Number” button on their profile to get their contact information. If you prefer to find providers who offer online scheduling, select “Schedules online” under the “Availability” category of the filter feature on the left side of the Colorectal Cancer doctor search results page. 

    Why is it important to get a second opinion from a different Colorectal Cancer doctor?

    Second opinions are an opportunity to confirm a diagnosis and its root cause, learn about alternative treatment options, or simply gain peace of mind. Many people, especially those with serious diagnoses, get second opinions so they can understand all their options and make informed decisions, so don’t hesitate to get one if you have any doubts or need more information or clarification regarding your care. Note that some insurance plans require second opinions, while others don’t cover second opinions, so be sure to confirm with your insurance provider first.   

    How can I prepare for my appointment with a Colorectal Cancer doctor in District of Columbia, US?

    Prepare for your appointment by gathering the following items: 

    • Copies of medical records (dating back at least one year) 
    • Your medical history, including illnesses, medical conditions, surgeries, and other doctors you see 
    • Family history of disease 
    • List of current prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal remedies or supplements including names and doses 
    • Allergies to medications, food, latex, insects, etc.  
    • List of questions and concerns 
    • Your insurance card 

    You might also contact the provider’s office to see if they offer transportation or childcare services or if you’re allowed to bring a loved one for support or to take notes during your visit. 

    What questions should I ask my Colorectal Cancer doctor?

    Here are some sample questions: 

    • Can you explain in simple terms what this condition is and how it’s treated? 
    • What symptoms or side effects should I watch for? 
    • What tests will be involved, and when can I expect results? 
    • Are there other specialists I need to see? 
    • What’s the best way to reach you if I have follow-up questions? 

    How can I learn about the latest clinical trials and research advances my Colorectal Cancer doctor may know about?

    MediFind’s Clinical Trials tool asks you a series of questions to help you narrow down your search by health condition, age, gender, location, how far you’re willing to travel, and more. Each question you answer filters down the number of trials until you find the ones that are most relevant to you. 

    MediFind’s Latest Advances tool features summaries of recent articles published in medical journals. We use cutting-edge technology to scour medical publication databases for the latest research advancements on any given condition, then we simplify this information in a way that’s useful and easy to understand. 

    Can I filter my search to show male or female Colorectal Cancer doctors in District of Columbia, US?

    Look for the filter feature on the left side of the Colorectal Cancer doctor search results page. Select “Female” or “Male” under the “Gender” category to search for female or male providers exclusively. If the “Any” option is selected, it will pull results for both male and female providers. 

    Can I filter my search to find a Colorectal Cancer doctor that offers video calls?

    Look for the filter feature on the left-side of the Colorectal Cancer doctor search results page. Select “Offers telehealth visits” under the Availability category to search for providers who offer virtual appointments (video calls). 

    Reviewed on: 11/11/24  

    By: MediFind Medical Staff 

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