The 20 Best Colorectal Cancer Doctors Near Me in Owings Mills, MD

Find the Top Colorectal Cancer Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 216 doctor with experience in Colorectal Cancer near Owings Mills, MD. Of these, 153 are Experienced, 36 are Advanced, 23 are Distinguished and 2 are Elite.

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216 providers found
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology

    Skip Viragh Outpatient Cancer Center

    201 North Broadway Street, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (12.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hindi, Urdu
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Nilofer S. Azad is Professor of Oncology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and serves as the Associate Cancer Center Director for Clinical Research for the Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center. Dr. Azad earned her medical degree and completed a residency in internal medicine at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. She then completed a fellowship in oncology and hematology at the National Institute of Health's National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland where she served as chief fellow. Dr. Azad’s research focused on early phase drug development and the intersection of moving exciting laboratory findings into patients for new treatment options Dr. Azad joined the faculty at the Kimmel Cancer Center in 2008. Dr. Azad’s clinical expertise is in cancers of the gastrointestinal tract, with a concentration in colorectal cancer, cholangiocarcinoma and pancreaticobiliary tract cancer. Her research efforts are dedicated to developing new drug combinations for patients with advanced cancer. In particular, Dr. Azad’s laboratory and clinical trials explore epigenetic therapy in combination with chemotherapy and immunotherapy to improve survival for patients, as well as molecularly targeted drugs. She is an active clinical trialist, leading multiple clinical trials of molecularly targeted agents for advanced cancer patients. Dr. Azad has received numerous grants for her work from entities such as the NCI (National Cancer Center), American Cancer Society, American Society of Clinical Research, Breakthrough Cancer Foundation, the Lustgarten Foundation, The Gateway Foundation, and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, among others. She served as Principal for Johns Hopkins on the AACR Stand Up 2 Cancer Colorectal Cancer Dream Team and is a member of the Stand Up 2 Cancer Epigenetics Dream Team, leading the GI cancer initiatives for the group. Dr. Azad is a national leader in GI cancer, including serving as a member of the national NCI Colon Cancer Task Force and as Co-Chair of the Scientific and Medical Advisory Board for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. She has a presidential appointment to the National Cancer Advisory Board. Dr. Azad is rated as an Elite provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 18 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer), Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Azad is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery

    Johns Hopkins Hospital

    600 N Wolfe St, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (13.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Jonathan Efron is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Efron is rated as an Elite 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 Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, Ileostomy, and Hernia Surgery.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center - Green Spring Station, Lutherville

    10803 Falls Road, Pavilion III STE 1500, Pavilion III STE 1500, 
    Lutherville, MD 
     (7.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Ross C. Donehower is an oncologist in the Baltimore area, caring for patients with gastrointestinal cancers. He was part of the team that developed premedications that allowed paclitaxel — a chemotherapy medication now used to treat several types of cancers — to be safely given to patients. The Virginia and D.K. Ludwig Professor in Clinical Investigation of Cancer, he serves as the director of the Hematology & Medical Oncology Fellowship Program and director of the Division of Medical Oncology at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Dr. Donehower received his undergraduate degree from Hamline University and earned his M.D. from the University of Minnesota. He completed his residency at The Johns Hopkins Hospital. Dr. Donehower joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 1980. Prior to joining Johns Hopkins, Dr. Donehower was a surgeon with the U.S. Public Health Service and a clinical associate of the medicine branch and clinical pharmacology branch at the National Cancer Institute. His research interests include gastrointestinal cancers, new anticancer drug development and pharmacology. Dr. Donehower serves on the editorial boards of numerous scholarly journals, including the International Journal of Oncology. He has been recognized by the American Society of Clinical Oncology with a 2017 Excellence in Teaching Award. He is a member of several professional organizations, including the American College of Physicians, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Association for Cancer Research. Dr. Donehower is rated as a Distinguished 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 Colorectal Cancer, Neuroendocrine Tumor, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery. Dr. Donehower is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Woodholme Gastroenterology Associates

    1838 Greene Tree Road, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (3.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Vietnamese

    Loc Le is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Le is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 25 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Barrett Esophagus, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy. Dr. Le is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Woodholme Gastroenterology Assoc PA

    1838 Greene Tree Road, Suite 400, Suite 400, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (4.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Eric Blum is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Blum is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 27 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Diverticular Disease, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Viral Gastroenteritis, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy. Dr. Blum is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Woodholme Gastroenterology Assoc PA

    Baltimore, MD 
     (4.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Ernest Tsao is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Tsao is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 43 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Hepatitis, Gas Bloat Syndrome, Hepatitis C, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Tsao is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology | Hospital Medicine
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology | Hospital Medicine

    Woodholme Gastroenterology Assoc PA

    1838 Greene Tree Road, Suite 400, Suite 400, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (4.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Igbo, Spanish

    Dr. Onwueme graduated with Distinction from Yale University with dual BSc/MSc degrees in chemistry and received MD and PhD degrees from Weill Cornell Medical College. He completed his Internal Medicine residency at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Clinical Fellow Harvard Medical School) and his Gastroenterology fellowship at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He is currently the Director of clinical trials at Woodholme Gastroenterology and has an ardent interest in the role of microbial metabolites in gut diseases. Dr. Onwueme prizes commitment to quality and compassionate patient care to which he devotes his practice. He has expert knowledge in gut microbiology and a special interest in diarrheal diseases, disordered gut motility, autoimmune and inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Onwueme is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 43 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Gastric Dysmotility, Diverticular Disease, Diarrhea, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Onwueme is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer

    Advanced Radiology P A

    21 Crossroads Dr Ste 100, 
    Owings Mills, MD 
     (0.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Andrew Morton is a Radiologist practicing medicine in Owings Mills, Maryland. Dr. Morton is rated as an Experienced 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 Ascites, Inflammatory Breast Cancer, Lung Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, and Endoscopy.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Woodholme Gastroenterology Assoc PA

    Baltimore, MD 
     (4.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hindi

    Arjun Vaid is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Vaid is rated as an Experienced 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 Jaundice, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Hiccups, Colonoscopy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Vaid is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Woodholme Gastroenterology Assoc PA

    Baltimore, MD 
     (4.1 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Hebrew
    Offers Telehealth

    Edward Wolf is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Wolf is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 30 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Diverticular Disease, Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Barrett Esophagus, Colonoscopy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Wolf is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Oncology

    Skip Viragh Outpatient Cancer Center

    201 North Broadway Street, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (12.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Vietnamese
    Offers Telehealth

    Dung Le, M.D. is a professor of oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and member of the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. Her research interests include novel approaches to patients with gastrointestinal malignancies. She has served as the principal investigator (PI) on many clinical trials focused on testing immunotherapy in patients with gastrointestinal malignancies and she has also served as the national PI on several studies including: anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1) in tumors with mismatch repair deficiency; a clinical trial in advanced pancreatic cancer patients evaluating the safety, tolerability and immune response to CRS-207, a listeria vaccine platform which has been modified to express the tumor antigen mesothelin; a multi-center, phase 2 study testing CRS-207 as a boost to allogenic pancreatic tumor cells transfected with GM-CSF gene (GVAX) for treatment of advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDA); a trial testing GVAX/ipilimumab in the maintenance setting for metastatic pancreatic cancer; and GVAX/CRS-207 +/- nivolumab in metastatic pancreatic cancer. These studies incorporate extensive laboratory correlates and have involved collaborations with clinicians and bench scientists with expertise in the fields of immunotherapy and cancer genomics. Dr. Le is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Pancreatic Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Gastroesophageal Junction Cancer, and Familial Pancreatic Cancer. Dr. Le is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Skip Viragh Outpatient Cancer Center

    201 North Broadway Street, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (12.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Daniel Laheru is a cancer specialist in Baltimore, caring for patients with pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer and neuroendocrine cancers. Dr. Laheru serves as co-director of the Skip Viragh Center for Pancreas Cancer Clinical Research and Patient Care at Johns Hopkins Medicine. Dr. Laheru received his undergraduate degree in chemistry from The University of Utah. He earned his M.D. at Baylor College of Medicine. He completed his residency at The University of Utah Hospital and Clinics and performed a fellowship in medical oncology at The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and The Johns Hopkins Oncology Center. Dr. Laheru joined the Johns Hopkins faculty in 2001. Dr. Laheru's research interests include pancreatic cancer and chemotherapy resistance in pancreatic cancer. With Elizabeth Jaffee, M.D., he developed a vaccine that supercharges the immune system and causes immune cells, which tend to be tolerant of cancer, to seek out and kill pancreatic cancer cells throughout the body. He has given numerous invited talks on pancreatic cancer and other cancers both nationally and internationally. He has authored over 200 papers focused on pancreatic cancer. Dr. Laheru serves as associate editor of Annals of Pancreatic Cancer. He has been recognized by the American Society of Clinical Oncology with the Young Investigator Award, by the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins as an Isaac and Catharine Hecht Scholar and has been elected to the Miller-Coulson Academy of Clinical Excellence. He is a member of the American College of Physicians, the American Society of Clinical Oncology and the American Association for Cancer Research. Dr. Laheru is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 28 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Neuroendocrine Tumor, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Pancreatectomy. Dr. Laheru is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Palliative Medicine | Oncology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Palliative Medicine | Oncology

    Skip Viragh Outpatient Cancer Center

    201 North Broadway Street, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (12.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Ilene S. Browner, M.D. specializes in geriatric oncology. Dr. Browner is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 23 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, and Endoscopy. Dr. Browner is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Skip Viragh Outpatient Cancer Center

    201 North Broadway Street, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (12.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English, Spanish
    Offers Telehealth

    Ana De Jesus is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. De Jesus is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 15 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Pancreatic Cancer, Neuroendocrine Tumor, Pancreatic Islet Cell Tumor, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Pancreatectomy. Dr. De Jesus is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Skip Viragh Outpatient Cancer Center

    201 North Broadway Street, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, Viragh BLDG 5th FL, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (12.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Eric Christenson is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Christenson 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 Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, and Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma. Dr. Christenson is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

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

    Surgical Oncology Associates-Sinai

    2435 W Belvedere Ave Ste 46, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (7.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Arun Mavanur is a Surgical Oncologist practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Mavanur is rated as a Distinguished 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, Neuroma Biliary Tract, Pancreatectomy, and Thyroidectomy.

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

    Colorectal Surgery-Sinai

    2435 W Belvedere Ave Ste 46, 
    Baltimore, MD 
     (7.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Joshua Wolf is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Wolf is rated as an Advanced 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 Anal Fissure, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Proctitis, Colostomy, and Hernia Surgery.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center - Green Spring Station, Lutherville

    2360 West Joppa Road, Joppa Concourse STE 205, Joppa Concourse STE 205, 
    Lutherville, MD 
     (7.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Lazarev joined Johns Hopkins from the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York, where he completed the Present-Levison advanced inflammatory bowel disease fellowship. A specialist in the diagnosis and management of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, Dr. Lazarev has published numerous peer-reviewed articles, abstracts and chapters. Dr. Lazarev is rated as an Experienced 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 Crohn's Disease, Viral Gastroenteritis, Ulcerative Colitis, Colonoscopy, and Endoscopy. Dr. Lazarev is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer

    Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center - Green Spring Station, Lutherville

    Lutherville, MD 
     (7.6 miles away)
    Experience:
    44+ years
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. William H. Sharfman is an associate professor of oncology and dermatology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. His areas of clinical expertise include cutaneous oncology, dermatology and immunotherapy. He helped create the well-established Melanoma Program at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center in 1994. Dr. Sharfman serves as the director of cutaneous oncology and clinical co-director for oncology at the Johns Hopkins Melanoma Program. He earned his M.D. from the University of Toledo College of Medicine. He completed his residency at Cleveland Clinic and performed a fellowship in hematology and oncology at Cleveland Clinic. Dr. Sharfman's research interests include novel therapies for high risk and advanced melanoma patients. Dr. Sharfman is rated as an Experienced 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 Melanoma, Merkel Cell Carcinoma, Eccrine Porocarcinoma, and Familial Pancreatic Cancer. Dr. Sharfman is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer

    Johns Hopkins Health Care & Surgery Center - Green Spring Station, Lutherville

    10803 Falls Road, Pavilion III STE 1500, Pavilion III STE 1500, 
    Lutherville, MD 
     (7.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Otis Brawley is professor of oncology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and 39th Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins. Dr. Brawley leads a broad interdisciplinary research effort of cancer health disparities at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center, working to close racial, economic and social disparities in the prevention, detection and treatment of cancer in the United States and worldwide. He also directs community outreach programs for underserved populations throughout Maryland as the Kimmel Cancer Center’s associate director for community outreach and engagement. A former professor of oncology and hematology and deputy director for cancer control at the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University in Atlanta, Dr. Brawley is a member of the National Academy of Medicine and recently received the Martin D. Abeloff Award for Excellence in Public Health and Cancer Control from the Maryland State Council of Cancer Control. The award, named after the director of the Kimmel Cancer Center from 1992 until his death in 2007, was established to recognize advancements made in cancer control practices that influenced the field of public health on a statewide, national or global scale. A graduate of the University of Chicago’s Pritzker School of Medicine, he completed an internal medicine residency at University Hospitals of Cleveland, Case-Western Reserve University and a fellowship in medical oncology at the National Cancer Institute. Dr. Brawley is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 3 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Prostate Cancer, Triple-Negative Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer, Prostatectomy, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Brawley is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine.

    Showing 1-20 of 216

    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 Owings Mills, MD?

    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 Owings Mills, MD?

    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 Owings Mills, MD?

    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 Owings Mills, MD?

    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 Owings Mills, MD?

    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 Owings Mills, MD?

    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 Owings Mills, MD?

    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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