The 20 Best Colorectal Cancer Doctors Near Me in Saint Louis, MO

Find the Top Colorectal Cancer Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 164 doctor with experience in Colorectal Cancer near Saint Louis, MO. Of these, 103 are Experienced, 38 are Advanced, 19 are Distinguished and 1 are Elite.

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164 providers found
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery
    Elite in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery

    Office

    660 S Euclid Ave Ste 8109, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Matthew Mutch is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Mutch is rated as an Elite 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, Lynch Syndrome, Ileostomy, and Hernia Surgery.

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

    Office

    4500 Forest Park Ave Fl 5, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Paul Wise is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Wise is rated as a Distinguished 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 Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, Ileostomy, and Hernia Surgery.

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

    Washington University

    660 S Euclid Ave, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Matthew Silviera is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Silviera 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 Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Gastrointestinal Fistula, Ileostomy, and Colostomy.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery

    Office

    4921 Parkview Pl Ste 8C, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Steven Hunt is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Hunt 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 Colorectal Cancer, Gastrointestinal Fistula, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Ileostomy, and Colostomy.

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

    SLUCare Physician Group

    1225 S. Grand Blvd., Second Level, 
    St. Louis, MO 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Grace Montenegro is a colon and rectal surgeon and general surgeon. She provides specialty care for diseases of the colon, rectum and anus, including colon and rectal cancer, benign anorectal disease, inflammatory bowel disease, pelvic floor dysfunction and complex diverticular disease. Dr. Montenegro uses minimally invasive techniques, including laparoscopic, robotic and transanal minimally invasive surgery. Her special interests include rectal and colon cancer, robotic surgery and inflammatory bowel disease. Dr. Montenegro is an assistant professor in the Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Her professional memberships include American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. Dr. Montenegro enjoys the challenge of complex cases and working with other SLUCare specialists to provide the best care possible for patients. Dr. Montenegro is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, Bladder Reconstruction, and Ileostomy. Dr. Montenegro is board certified in American Board Of Colon And Rectal Surgery , American Board Of Surgery , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Washington University

    4500 Forest Park Ave, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Olivia Aranha is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Aranha is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Pancreatic Cancer, Anal Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

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

    Washington University

    660 S Euclid Ave, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Sean Glasgow is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Glasgow is rated as an Advanced 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, Pseudomyxoma Peritonei, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Ileostomy, and Colostomy.

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

    Washington University

    660 S Euclid Ave, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Ryan Fields is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Fields is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 42 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Neuroendocrine Tumor, Pancreatic Cancer, Gallbladder Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Pancreatectomy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer

    Barnes Hospital Washington University

    510 S Kingshighway Blvd, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Robert Pallow is a Radiologist practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Pallow is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Colorectal Cancer, Lung Cancer, Gastrostomy, and Bone Marrow Aspiration.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Office

    4921 Parkview Pl Ste 7A, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Mohd Khushman is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Khushman is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 12 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Colorectal Cancer.

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

    Slh Rad Csm 3l

    1225 S. Grand Blvd., Third Level, 
    St. Louis, MO 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Afsheen Sherwani is a vascular interventional radiologist who treats a variety of conditions - from uterine fibroids to liver cancer - using minimally invasive procedures through the wrist. This method, known as radial artery access, eases discomfort and allows for faster recovery following the procedure. Dr. Sherwani treats tumors, traumatic injuries, internal bleeding, blood clots, peripheral arterial disease and more. She sees patients in the hospital and in the SLUCare outpatient clinic for vascular and interventional radiology. Dr. Sherwani is assistant professor in the Department of Radiology, Division of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. Dr. Sherwani is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 5 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Pancreatic Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Gastrostomy, and Prostatic Artery Embolization. Dr. Sherwani is board certified in American Board Of Radiology/Interventional Radiology & Diagnostic Radiology , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Intensive Care Medicine
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Intensive Care Medicine

    Office

    660 S Euclid Ave # 8109, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    William Chapman is an Intensive Care Medicine provider practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Chapman is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 9 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Cholangiocarcinoma (Bile Duct Cancer), Hepatitis, Fibrolamellar Carcinoma, Liver Transplant, and Hepatectomy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer

    Washington University

    660 S Euclid Ave, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Andrea Wang is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Wang is rated as an Advanced 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, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreatoblastoma, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Pancreatectomy.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Office

    4921 Parkview Pl Fl 8, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (3.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Matthew Ciorba is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Ciorba is rated as an Advanced 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, Colitis, Small Bowel Resection, and Colonoscopy.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology | Oncology | Internal Medicine
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology | Oncology | Internal Medicine

    SSM Health Cancer Care

    6400 Clayton Road, Suite 302, 
    St. Louis, MO 
     (6.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Sen specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of cancers, as well as hematological disorders and conditions. He completed his fellowship in hematology and medical oncology at Hahneann University Hospital/Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, where he also served as the chief fellow. He fulfilled his internship and residency training, followed by a year as chief resident, at St Luke's Hospital in St. Louis. Additionally, he served as a teaching faculty physician for the internal medicine residency program at SSM Health St. Mary's Hospital - St. Louis. Dr. Sen graduated with his medical degree from the University College of Medical Sciences, University of Delhi in India. Dr. Sen is board certified in internal medicine, hematology and medical oncology. He holds memberships in the American Society of Hematology and the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Dr. Sen is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 22 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, and Lung Cancer. Dr. Sen is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine , American Board Of Internal Medicine/Hematology , American Board Of Internal Medicine/Medical Oncology , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology | Oncology | Internal Medicine
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology | Oncology | Internal Medicine

    SSM Health Cancer Care

    6400 Clayton Road, Suite 212, 
    St. Louis, MO 
     (6.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Jyotsana Sinha, MD, is board certified in oncology and hematology, as well as being a board certified internal medicine physician. She graduated from Nilratan Sircar Medical College in Calcutta, India and completed her residency at Hahnemann University/Drexel University College of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA. After finishing her residency, Dr. Sinha completed a fellowship in oncology and hematology at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital. Dr. Sinha practices medical oncology and hematology for patients 18 years of age and older. She has clinical interests in diagnosing and treating all types of cancers and hematological (blood) disorders. She is a member of the American Society of Oncology, American Society of Hematology and the American College of Physicians. **I believe in evidence-based medicine and strive to provide compassionate care to my patients. I provide the latest information and the best available treatment along with a multidisciplinary approach that empowers patients to make informed decisions and be involved in their treatment. - Jyotsana Sinha, MD** **Board Eligible in Oncology/Hematology** *** Board certified: internal medicine * Provides care to patients 18 years of age & older * Diagnose and treat all types of cancers & hematological disorders**. Dr. Sinha 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 Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS), Multiple Myeloma, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, and Thymectomy. Dr. Sinha is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine , American Board Of Internal Medicine/Hematology , American Board Of Internal Medicine/Medical Oncology , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

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

    Slh Rad Csm 3l

    1225 S. Grand Blvd., Third Level, 
    St. Louis, MO 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Keith Pereira is a vascular interventional radiologist who uses minimally invasive procedures to treat blocked arteries in the legs, shrink uterine fibroids and enlarged prostate, and manage patients' pain. He offers minimally invasive treatment options for patients with primary and metastastic liver and kidney cancer. Dr. Pereira is among the first in the area to perform procedures, such as cancer treatment or uterine fibroid embolization, through an artery in the wrist, improving patient comfort and speeding recovery. He is principal investigator for a clinical trial on bariatric embolization for weight loss. SLU is one of the only FDA-approved sites in the country for this study. Dr. Pereira is assistant professor in the Department of Radiology, Division of Interventional Radiology, at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. He is a member of the Society of Interventional Radiology, the Radiological Society of North America, and the Indian Radiological and Imaging Association. Dr. Pereira is rated as an Experienced 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 Fibrolamellar Carcinoma, Uterine Fibroids, Ascites, Prostatic Artery Embolization, and Liver Embolization. Dr. Pereira is board certified in American Board Of Radiology/Interventional Radiology & Diagnostic Radiology , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery | Surgical Oncology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery | Surgical Oncology

    SLUCare Physician Group

    1225 S. Grand Blvd., Second Level, 
    St. Louis, MO 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Jennifer Keller is a surgical oncologist who performs complex procedures to treat pancreatic cancer, small bowel cancer, gastric cancers, including colorectal and liver metastases. She also treats soft tissue sarcomas, neuroendocrine tumors, adrenal masses and more. Her clinical expertise includes pancreatic resections and complex reconstructions, gastric resections, cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC). She uses robotic and minimally invasive techniques in her practice and participates in multidisciplinary tumor boards to deliver targeted treatment plans for patients. Dr. Keller's research interests include exploring additional applications of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal surgery. She is also interested in geriatric oncology and community outreach. Dr. Keller is an assistant professor in the Department of Surgery, Division of General Surgery, at Saint Louis University School of Medicine. She is a member of the Society of Surgical Oncology. Dr. Keller is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. Her clinical expertise encompasses Pseudomyxoma Peritonei, Melanoma, Colorectal Cancer, Gallbladder Removal, and Small Bowel Resection. Dr. Keller is board certified in American Board Of Surgery , American Board Of Surgery/Complex General Oncology , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Gastroenterology
    Gastroenterology

    SLUCare Physician Group

    1225 S. Grand Blvd., Second Level, 
    St. Louis, MO 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    "With clinical expertise in a broad spectrum of gastrointestinal conditions, Dr. Jennifer Palagiri cares for patients using the latest diagnostic technologies and therapies. She treats individuals with inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, motility disorders, abdominal pain, Crohn's disease and obscure gastrointestinal bleeding. She also conducts colon cancer screening and performs procedures that include double balloon enteroscopy, capsule endoscopy and colonoscopy. A member of the Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, Dr. Palagiri serves as an assistant professor of Internal Medicine. She is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, Crohn's Colitis Foundation of America, the American Gastroenterological Association and the American Neurogastroenterology and Motility Society. Dr. (LaBundy) Palagiri has the distinction of being named a ""Best Doctor"" in St. Louis Magazine's annual listing of top physicians.". Dr. Palagiri is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 2 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Ascites, Crohn's Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Palagiri is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine/Gastroenterology , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer

    Bethesda Gen Hosp SNF

    3655 Vista Ave, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (2.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Nishant Poddar is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Poddar is rated as an Advanced 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 Lung Cancer, Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), and Neuroendocrine Tumor.

    Showing 1-20 of 164

    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 Saint Louis, MO?

    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 Saint Louis, MO?

    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 Saint Louis, MO?

    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 Saint Louis, MO?

    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 Saint Louis, MO?

    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 Saint Louis, MO?

    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 Saint Louis, MO?

    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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