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

Find the Top Colorectal Cancer Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 98 doctor with experience in Colorectal Cancer near Saint Peters, MO. Of these, 51 are Experienced, 25 are Advanced and 17 are Distinguished.

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98 providers found
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    General Surgery

    Benrus Surgical Associates Inc.

    6 Jungermann Cir Ste 205, 
    Saint Peters, MO 
     (2.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Jerad Miller is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Peters, Missouri. Dr. Miller is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 10 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Colorectal Cancer, Diverticular Disease, Colorectal Cancer, Ileostomy, and Colostomy.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Physician Groups LC

    150 Entrance Way, 
    Saint Peters, MO 
     (2.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Caron Rigden is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Saint Peters, Missouri. Dr. Rigden is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 36 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Breast Cancer, Paget Disease of the Breast, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Colorectal Cancer.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology

    Physician Groups LC

    150 Entrance Way, 
    Saint Peters, MO 
     (2.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Peter Oppelt is a Hematologist practicing medicine in Saint Peters, Missouri. Dr. Oppelt is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 58 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC), Adult Soft Tissue Sarcoma, Laryngeal Cancer, Alveolar Soft Part Sarcoma, and Gastrostomy.

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

    SSM Health Cancer Care

    1475 Kisker Road, 
    St. Charles, MO 
     (3.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    "Dr. Zoghbi is an experience board-certified medical oncologist and hematologist who has been in practice since 2011. A graduate of Lebanese University School of Medicine in Lebanon, Dr. Zoghbi completed her residency at East Tennessee State University. She is fellowship trained in hematology, oncology and bone marrow transplant from Saint Louis University. Dr. Zoghbi treats patients aged 18 years and older. She is highly trained and qualified to treat a broad range of diseases, but takes a special interest in treating people with breast cancer, colon cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer. She also sees other solid tumors as well as benign and malignant hematologic disorders (e.g. iron deficiency anemia , lymphoma, myeloma, and chronic leukemia (CLL, CML). Dr. Zoghbi is fluent in English, French and Arabic. She is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncologists (ASCO) and the American Society of Hematologists (ASH). ""My goal is to deliver the state-of-the-art, most advanced therapies to my patients while focusing on maintaining good quality of life. I am dedicated to diagnose, treat and prevent different types of cancers. Providing education and high compassionate care are the cornerstones in treating my patients.""". Dr. Zoghbi is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 26 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Childhood Iron Deficiency Anemia, Paget Disease of the Breast, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Colorectal Cancer. Dr. Zoghbi 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.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Internal Medicine
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Internal Medicine

    SSM Health Medical Group

    1475 Kisker Road, Suite 200, 
    St. Charles, MO 
     (3.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Hu is board certified in internal medicine. He earned his medical degree at the University of Missouri-Columbia and completed his internship and residency there as well. Dr. Hu has been practicing in St. Charles since 1986 and has been with SSM Health since 1988. He has been very active in the community. Dr. Hu has a special interest in preventive medicine. Dr. Hu is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 20 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Coronary Heart Disease, Nephrosclerosis, Renovascular Hypertension, and Hypertension. Dr. Hu is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Family Medicine
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Family Medicine

    SSM Health Medical Group

    1101 Highway K, 
    O Fallon, MO 
     (3.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Dr. Hemmersmeier is board certified in family medicine. He completed his residency at Deaconess Hospital - St. Louis after earning his medical degree at Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine. Dr. Hemmersmeier has been in practice in O'Fallon, MO since 1998. He has a special interest in sports medicine and has volunteered as a coach in the community and at his church in conjunction with his children's athletic interests. Dr. Hemmersmeier has been awarded recognition from the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) Diabetes and Stroke Physician Recognition Programs for meeting national standards for diabetes and stroke care. Dr. Hemmersmeier is part of a Patient-Centered Medical Home. Dr. Hemmersmeier uses telehealth services to conduct video office visits with current, established patients for: upper respiratory infection, sore throat, cough, seasonal allergies, skin rashes or lesions, mouth and cold sores, flu symptoms, conjunctivitis, UTI, gout, yeast infection and travel medication. A forward-facing camera and internet access are required, and a tablet or computer/laptop may be used. Telehealth appointments can be scheduled online through MyChart. Dr. Hemmersmeier is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 14 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Hypertension, Coronary Heart Disease, Sacroiliac Joint Disease, and Hypothyroidism. Dr. Hemmersmeier is board certified in American Board Of Family Medicine , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Hematology

    Physician Groups LC

    150 Entrance Way, 
    Saint Peters, MO 
     (2.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Ashley Frith is a Hematologist practicing medicine in Saint Peters, Missouri. Dr. Frith is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 24 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Breast Cancer, Paget Disease of the Breast, Angiosarcoma, and Inflammatory Breast Cancer.

    Hematology | Oncology | Internal Medicine
    Hematology | Oncology | Internal Medicine

    SSM Health Cancer Care

    1475 Kisker Road, 
    St. Charles, MO 
     (3.4 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Delia Zvinovski, MD, is a hematology-oncology specialist who sees adult patients, offering evaluation, treatment, and prevention services for different types of cancer. Her particular areas of interest include breast cancer, geriatric oncology, and lung cancer, as well as non-cancerous blood disorders. Dr. Zvinovski's mission is to effectively communicate with patients, explaining the details of a patient's care and empowering the patient with knowledge during their course of treatment. This collaborative relationship helps patients face the unique challenges that occur throughout each stage of their disease. In her practice, Dr. Zvinovski strives to offer a thorough evaluation at each visit and to improve and preserve the patient's quality of life. Dr. Zvinovski is a member of the American Society of Hematology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the American College of Physicians. As a child, Dr. Zvinovski lived in Haifa, Israel. St. Louis has been her hometown since she moved to the region in fourth grade. Dr. Zvinovski 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 Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL), Large-Cell Immunoblastic Lymphoma, Monoclonal Gammopathy of Undetermined Significance (MGUS), and Breast Cancer. Dr. Zvinovski 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
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    SSM Health Medical Group

    300 Medical Plaza, Suite 310, 
    Lake St. Louis, MO 
     (7.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Louay Omran, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist, and a formally trained advanced endoscopist. He has the ability to perform endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), ERCP, and luminal stenting to relieve obstruction. Dr. Omran is available for the evaluation and management of patients with both common and challenging gastrointestinal disorders. Dr. Omran attended medical school in Syria, and completed internal medicine residencies and two fellowships (geriatric medicine and gastroenterology & hepatology) at Saint Louis University. He also completed a fellowship in advanced endoscopy and pancreatic diseases at the Medical University of South Carolina. He is a board certified physician nutritionist. Before joining SSM Health Medical Group, Dr. Omran practiced gastroenterology and advanced endoscopy at SSM Health Saint Louis University Hospital as a member of SLUCare. For over 15 years, he was a key faculty member participating in the education and training of students, residents and fellows. He won numerous teaching awards in the process. Dr. Omran was elected to become a Fellow of the American College of Physicians. He is also a member of the American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, the American Gastrointestinal Association, and the American College of Gastroenterology. Dr. Omran is married to Pascale Salam, MD, and has two sons. His hobbies include reading modern history and biographies, trivia, soccer and tennis. Dr. Omran 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 Choledocholithiasis, Childhood Pancreatitis, Acute Pancreatitis, Endoscopy, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Omran 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.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    100 Medical Plaza, Department Of Radiology, 
    Lake St. Louis, MO 
     (7.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Lewis Halverson is a radiologist with Radiologic Imaging Consultants. Dr. Halverson is a board-certified radiologist. He graduated from Washington University School of Medicine and completed his residency at the Jewish Hospital of St. Louis. Dr. Halverson served as Radiology Department Chairman. His clinical interest is interventional radiology. Dr. Halverson is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Ascites, Lung Cancer, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Bone Graft, and Vertebroplasty. Dr. Halverson is board certified in American Board Of Radiology/Diagnostic Radiology , Drug Enforcement Administration , Missouri Dept Of Health/Narcotics&Dangerous Drugs , and Missouri State Board Of Registration.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Missouri Cancer Care PC

    400 Medical Plz Ste 100, 
    Lake Saint Louis, MO 
     (8.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Osama Qubaiah is a Hematologist practicing medicine in Lake Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Qubaiah is rated as a Distinguished 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 Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), and Pleuropulmonary Blastoma.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Office

    400 Medical Plz Ste 100, 
    Lake Saint Louis, MO 
     (8.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Pascale Salem is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Lake Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Salem is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 40 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Paget Disease of the Breast, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, and Neuroendocrine Tumor.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Office

    400 Medical Plz Ste 100, 
    Lake Saint Louis, MO 
     (8.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    James Beattie is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Lake Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Beattie is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 29 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Lung Cancer, Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), and Colorectal Cancer.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery | General Surgery
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery | General Surgery
    226 S. Woods Mill Road, Suite 49W, 
    Chesterfield, MO 
     (11.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Dr. Donald T. Summers is board certified in Colon & Rectal Surgery and General Surgery. He earned his medical degree and completed surgery residency training at Saint Louis University. Dr. Summers completed Colon & Rectal surgery fellowship at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City. He is a Fellow of the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Summers has clinical interest in Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, colon & rectal cancer, diverticulitis, rectal prolapse, benign ano-rectal disease, intestinal endometriosis, intestinal obstruction, enterocutanoeus fistulas, and reoperative. Dr. Summers 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 Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Rectal Prolapse, Hernia Surgery, and Hemorrhoidectomy. Dr. Summers 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
    Colorectal Surgery
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Colorectal Surgery

    Suburban Surgical Associates Inc.

    555 N New Ballas Rd Ste 265, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (12.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Lawrence Mendelow is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Mendelow is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 15 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Diverticular Disease, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Ileostomy, and Hemorrhoidectomy.

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

    Office

    12401 Olive Blvd Ste 202, 
    Saint Louis, MO 
     (12.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Hannah Ha is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Saint Louis, Missouri. Dr. Ha is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 17 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Hemorrhoids, Mesenteric Venous Thrombosis, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Hernia Surgery, and Ileostomy.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Internal Medicine
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Internal Medicine

    Office

    6 Jungermann Cir Ste 201, 
    Saint Peters, MO 
     (1.5 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Brian Stufflebam is a primary care provider, practicing in Internal Medicine in Saint Peters, Missouri. Dr. Stufflebam is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 6 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Sitosterolemia, Lung Metastases, Breast Cancer, and High Cholesterol.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Mid-West Podiatry And Associates

    70 Jungermann Cir Ste 201, 
    Saint Peters, MO 
     (2.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Anuj Chhaparia is a Gastroenterologist practicing medicine in Saint Peters, Missouri. Dr. Chhaparia 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 Menetrier Disease, Gastrointestinal Bleeding, Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome, Gastrostomy, and Endoscopy.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Family Medicine
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Family Medicine

    Michael J Adams DO

    408 Jungermann Rd, 
    Saint Peters, MO 
     (2.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    Aubra Houchin is a primary care provider, practicing in Family Medicine in Saint Peters, Missouri. Dr. Houchin is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. His clinical expertise encompasses Lung Nodules, Hypertension, Familial Hypertension, and Glucocorticoid-Remediable Aldosteronism.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Interventional Radiology | Radiology
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Interventional Radiology | Radiology
    100 Medical Plaza, 
    Lake St. Louis, MO 
     (7.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English

    M Majeed is a Radiologist and an Interventional Radiologist practicing medicine in Lake St. Louis, Missouri. Dr. Majeed 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 Ascites, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Vertebroplasty, and Bone Graft. Dr. Majeed 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.

    Showing 1-20 of 98

    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 Peters, 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 Peters, 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 Peters, 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 Peters, 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 Peters, 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 Peters, 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 Peters, 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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