The 20 Best Colorectal Cancer Doctors Near Me in Atlanta, GA

Find the Top Colorectal Cancer Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 150 doctor with experience in Colorectal Cancer near Atlanta, GA. Of these, 101 are Experienced, 33 are Advanced, 15 are Distinguished and 1 are Elite.

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150 providers found
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer

    Emory Winship Cancer Institute

    1365 Clifton Road Northeast, BldgC, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.7 miles away)
    Experience:
    26+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Olatunji Alese is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 26 years. Dr. Alese is rated as an Elite 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 Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Neuroendocrine Tumor, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Pancreaticoduodenectomy. Dr. Alese is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, 2016.

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

    Winship Cancer Institute At Emory Midtown

    36 Linden Avenue Northeast, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Experience:
    16+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Abhineet Uppal is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 16 years. Dr. Uppal is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery. Dr. Uppal is board certified in American Board Of Surgery, 2022.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Georgia Cancer Specialists

    550 Peachtree Street Northeast, Suite 1185, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Ethan Tolbert is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Tolbert is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 36 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Appendix Cancer, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia, and Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Tolbert is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine - Hematology, and American Board Of Internal Medicine - Medical Oncology. Dr. Tolbert is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Piedmont Physicians Medical Oncology Atlanta

    1800 Howell Mill Road Suite 300, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Eyal Meiri earned his medical degree from University of Toronto and completed his residency at Sinai Hospital of Detroit. He is fellowship-trained in oncology and hematology and is board certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology. Prior to joining Piedmont, he was the Chief of Medical Oncology at Cancer Treatment Centers of America. Dr. Meiri has been practicing medicine for over 33 years and specializes in GI Cancers and Neuroendocrine Tumors.In his spare time, Dr. Meiri enjoys spending time reading, listening to audio books and podcasts, traveling, the Toronto Maple Leafs, and live concerts.Dr. Meiri is accepting new patients and welcomes most major insurance plans. Dr. Meiri is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 16 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Neuroendocrine Tumor, Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, and Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Meiri is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine and American Board Of Internal Medicine - Medical Oncology. Dr. Meiri is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Surgical Oncology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Surgical Oncology

    Emory Winship Cancer Institute

    1365 Clifton Road Northeast, BldgC, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.7 miles away)
    Experience:
    23+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Maria Russell is a Surgical Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. She has been practicing medicine for over 23 years. Dr. Russell is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 20 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Neuroendocrine Tumor, Colorectal Cancer, Stomach Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Russell is board certified in American Board Of Surgery, 2010.

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

    Atl Colorectal Surgery

    95 Collier Rd NW Ste 4025, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (3.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Evan Feldman is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Feldman is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 32 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Hemorrhoids, Ureteroscopy, and Hernia Surgery.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Georgia Cancer Specialists

    550 Peachtree Street Northeast, Suite 1185, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Daniel Carr is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Carr is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 39 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Neuroendocrine Tumor, Colorectal Cancer, Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia, and Familial Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Carr is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine and American Board Of Internal Medicine - Medical Oncology. Dr. Carr is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Winship Cancer Institute At Emory Midtown

    36 Linden Avenue Northeast, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Experience:
    24+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Spanish
    Offers Telehealth

    Kenneth Cardona is a Surgical Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 24 years. Dr. Cardona is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 37 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Adult Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Liposarcoma, Retroperitoneal Liposarcoma, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Pancreatectomy. Dr. Cardona is board certified in American Board Of Surgery, 2010.

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

    Piedmont Colorectal Associates

    35 Collier Rd NW Ste 475, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (3.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Paul Joyner was born in Greenville, North Carolina. He attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill for his undergraduate degrees in Biology and Psychology. He attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine in Mobile, AL. After finishing medical school, he served at the University of Connecticut in Hartford, CT for his General Surgery Residency. He completed his colorectal fellowship at St. Francis Hospital in Hartford, CT. He then worked with the Colorectal Surgeons of Greater Hartford for two years.After welcoming the third child to his family, Dr. Joyner moved to Atlanta to join the practice at Piedmont Colorectal Associates in September 2015. Since that time, he has practiced primarily at Piedmont Henry Hospital but he also provides services at our Atlanta Office. He is board certified in both Colon and Rectal Surgery and General Surgery.Dr. Joyner performs treatment for a wide range of colorectal issues, both benign and malignant. He is certified to perform both robotically assisted and laparoscopic colorectal surgery for the treatment of various colorectal disorders including diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancers. He also specializes in the care of anorectal disorders such as hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas and fecal incontinence. He is well-trained in a broad range of colon and rectal disorders and offers compassionate and comprehensive care to his patients.Dr. Joyner has served and continues to serve on many professional committees and believes it is important to participate in the governance of the hospital you work with and maintain the quality of the care provided. Of special note, he has served as a member of the Robotic Surgery Committee and Medical/Surgical Quality committee at St. Francis Hospital and Institutional Review Board at Manchester Memorial Hospital. Currently, he serves on the Operational Council Subcommittee, the Perioperative Governance Committee and Professional Practice Evaluation Committee at Piedmont Henry Hospital.Dr. Joyner has three wonderful children. During his free time, he enjoys reading, the outdoors, board games, adventure races and new experiences. Dr. Joyner is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 16 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Hemorrhoids, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Anal Fissure, Hemorrhoidectomy, and Bladder Reconstruction. Dr. Joyner is board certified in American Board Of Colon And Rectal Surgery. Dr. Joyner is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Piedmont Physicians Surgical Oncology And HPB Surgery Atlanta

    35 Collier Road NW, Suite 775, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (3.4 miles away)
    Experience:
    10+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients

    Katherine Bingmer, M.D. is a board certified general surgeon and a fellowship-trained surgical oncologist and hepatopancreatobiliary surgeon. Dr. Bingmer treats benign and malignant processes of the liver, pancreas, gallbladder, and biliary system. She has a special interest in primary and metastatic cancer of the liver, including hepatocellular carcinoma, cholangiocarcinoma, and metastatic colorectal cancer.In her spare time, Dr. Bingmer enjoys spending time with her husband and is an avid sports fan.She is accepting new patients and welcomes most major insurance plans. Dr. Bingmer 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, Adrenal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Endoscopy. Dr. Bingmer is board certified in American Board Of Surgery. Dr. Bingmer is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Piedmont Cancer Institute, PC

    1800 Howell Mill Road Northwest, Suite 800, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jay Rhee is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Rhee is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 67 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Thrombocytopenia, Acute Mountain Sickness, and Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia. Dr. Rhee is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine - Hematology and American Board Of Internal Medicine - Medical Oncology. Dr. Rhee is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Piedmont Cancer Institute, PC

    1800 Howell Mill Road Northwest, Suite 800, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Rajni Sinha is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Sinha is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 47 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Paget Disease of the Breast, Breast Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Pancreatic Cancer. Dr. Sinha is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine - Hematology and American Board Of Internal Medicine - Medical Oncology. Dr. Sinha is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Piedmont Cancer Institute (NEW)

    1800 Howell Mill Road NW, Suite 800, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Nikita Amin is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Amin is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 51 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia, Dehydration, and Agranulocytosis. Dr. Amin is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, American Board Of Internal Medicine - Hematology, and American Board Of Internal Medicine - Medical Oncology. Dr. Amin is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Piedmont Cancer Institute, PC

    1800 Howell Mill Road Northwest, Suite 800, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hebrew
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Eiran Warner is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Warner is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 35 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Idiopathic Neutropenia, Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia, Iron Deficiency Anemia, and Paris-Trousseau Thrombocytopenia. Dr. Warner is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Warner is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Emory Winship Cancer Institute

    1365 Clifton Road Northeast, BldgC, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.7 miles away)
    Experience:
    39+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Charles Staley is a Surgical Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 39 years. Dr. Staley is rated as an Advanced 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 Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Pseudomyxoma Peritonei, Stomach Cancer, and Ureteroscopy. Dr. Staley is board certified in American Board Of Surgery, 1993.

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

    Emory Winship Cancer Institute

    1365 Clifton Road Northeast, BldgC, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (4.7 miles away)
    Experience:
    21+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Patrick Sullivan is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 21 years. Dr. Sullivan 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, Colorectal Cancer, Anal Cancer, Colostomy, and Bladder Reconstruction. Dr. Sullivan is board certified in American Board Of Colon And Rectal Surgery, 2012.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology | Hematology

    Georgia Cancer Specialists

    2712 Lawrenceville Highway, 
    Decatur, GA 
     (7.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jayanthi Srinivasiah is a Hematologist and an Oncologist practicing medicine in Decatur, Georgia. Dr. Srinivasiah is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 66 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Breast Cancer, Inflammatory Breast Cancer, Paget Disease of the Breast, Bone Marrow Aspiration, and Gastrostomy. Dr. Srinivasiah is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine - Hematology and American Board Of Internal Medicine - Medical Oncology. Dr. Srinivasiah is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery

    Emory University Hospital Midtown Campus

    550 Peachtree Street Northeast, MedicalOfficeTower, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Experience:
    19+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Ari Reichstein is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 19 years. Dr. Reichstein is rated as an Experienced 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 Anal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, Ileostomy, and Colostomy. Dr. Reichstein is board certified in American Board Of Colon And Rectal Surgery, 2016.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer

    Winship Cancer Institute At Emory Midtown

    36 Linden Avenue Northeast, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Experience:
    16+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Shahid Ahmed is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 16 years. Dr. Ahmed is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 11 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Prostate Cancer, Familial Prostate Cancer, Clear Cell Sarcoma, Familial Wilms Tumor 2, and Bone Marrow Aspiration. Dr. Ahmed is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, 2019.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer

    Winship Cancer Institute At Emory Midtown

    36 Linden Avenue Northeast, Fl16, 
    Atlanta, GA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Experience:
    8+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hindi, Punjabi

    Udhayvir Grewal is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Atlanta, Georgia. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Grewal is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 1 other condition, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Neuroendocrine Tumor, Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer), Pancreatic Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, and Gastrostomy. Dr. Grewal is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Showing 1-20 of 150

    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 near Atlanta, GA?

    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 near Atlanta, GA?

    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 near Atlanta, GA?

    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 near Atlanta, GA?

    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 near Atlanta, GA?

    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 near Atlanta, GA?

    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 near Atlanta, GA?

    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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