The 20 Best Colorectal Cancer Doctors Near Me in Tacoma, WA

Find the Top Colorectal Cancer Experts and Specialists

Last Updated: 04/28/2026

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MediFind found 92 doctor with experience in Colorectal Cancer near Tacoma, WA. Of these, 61 are Experienced, 23 are Advanced and 8 are Distinguished.

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92 providers found
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Northwest Medical Specialties - Tacoma

    1624 South I Street, Suite 105, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jorge Chaves is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Chaves is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 73 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Dehydration, and Lynch Syndrome. Dr. Chaves is board certified in Internal Medicine and Medical Oncology. Dr. Chaves is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Northwest Medical Specialties - Tacoma

    1624 South I Street, Suite 105, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (0.7 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Francis Senecal is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Senecal is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 88 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Paget Disease of the Breast, Breast Cancer, Angiosarcoma, Inflammatory Breast Cancer, and Bone Marrow Aspiration. Dr. Senecal is board certified in Hematology, Internal Medicine, and Medical Oncology. Dr. Senecal is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Franciscan Surgical Associates At St. Joseph

    1708 S Yakima Avenue, Suite 105 & 112, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Shalini Kanneganti, MD, FACS, FASCRS, is a fellowship-trained surgeon specializing in the treatment of colon and rectal diseases. Her areas of expertise include the laparoscopic treatment of colon and rectal disease; diagnostic and therapeutic colonoscopy; surgical management of colon and rectal cancer; inflammatory bowel disease; diverticulitis; rectal prolapse; hemorrhoids; fecal incontinence; anal fissures; anal abscesses; and fistulas.Dr. Kanneganti endeavors to deliver care with the highest order of compassion and innovation. She is dedicated to healing patients through surgical intervention.Shalini Kanneganti, MD, #1 Colorectal Surgeon in Pierce County, Top 3 in Washington State. Dr. Kanneganti 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 Familial Colorectal Cancer, Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, Bladder Reconstruction, and Colostomy. Dr. Kanneganti is board certified in American Board Of Colon & Rectal Surgery. Dr. Kanneganti is currently accepting new patients.

    Learn about our expert tiers
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer

    Franciscan Oncology At St. Joseph

    1617 South J Street, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Lavanya Sundararajan, MD, is a hematologist and oncologist with a special interest in oncological tumors and benign blood disorders. She loves the challenge that these different diseases pose and staying current with all the treatment options.The nature and complexities of the many kinds of cancer, the cutting-edge research and constantly evolving treatment options, and, most importantly, the chance to make a difference that is life-changing and long-standing for patients is the reason she chose to become an oncologist. The deep bond that the oncologist shares with his or her patients and their families is a very moving and rewarding experience for Dr. Sundararajan.Dr. Sundararajan has a curious, affectionate and adventurous 10-year-old son that is the center of her universe. To stay grounded and to continue to appreciate the beauty of life, she enjoys cooking, traveling, exercising, and travel and food writing in her time outside of the clinic. Dr. Sundararajan is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 41 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Paget Disease of the Breast, Dehydration, Agranulocytosis, and Chronic Familial Neutropenia. Dr. Sundararajan is board certified in Medical Oncology, American Board Of Internal Medicine. Dr. Sundararajan is currently accepting new patients.

    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer
    Advanced in Colorectal Cancer

    Salish Cancer Center

    3700 Pacific Highway East, Suite 100, 
    Fife, WA 
     (4.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Stanlee Lu is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Fife, Washington. Dr. Lu is rated as an Advanced 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 Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Lung Cancer, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, and Pancreatic Cancer. Dr. Lu is board certified in Internal Medicine. Dr. Lu is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Northwest Medical Specialties - Puyallup

    Puyallup, WA 
     (9.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Ludmila Martin is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Puyallup, Washington. Dr. Martin is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 42 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, and Neuroendocrine Tumor. Dr. Martin is board certified in Internal Medicine. Dr. Martin is currently accepting new patients.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Northwest Medical Specialties - Puyallup

    Puyallup, WA 
     (9.2 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Andrea Veatch is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Puyallup, Washington. Dr. Veatch is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 70 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Lung Cancer, Pleuropulmonary Blastoma, Dehydration, and Testicular Yolk Sac Tumor. Dr. Veatch is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Medical Group

    1812 S J St, Suite 120, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (0.8 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Sangik Oh, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with fellowship training in gastroenterology. Dr. Oh served as Chief Medical Resident during his internal medicine residency. During his gastroenterology fellowship, he also earned his Master's degree in Medical Science from Harvard Medical School. He was also the recipient of the 2002 AASLD/Schering Advanced Hepatology Fellowship Award.Upon completion of his fellowship, Dr. Oh joined the faculty at Harvard Medical School and was a staff gastroenterologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center before joining Tacoma Digestive Disease Center in 2005, which is now Franciscan Digestive Care Associates. Dr. Oh is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 45 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Visceromegaly, Enlarged Liver, Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, Cirrhosis, and Endoscopy. Dr. Oh is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Subspecialty In Gastroenterology. Dr. Oh is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Multicare Colon & Rectal Surgery-Tacoma

    3124 S 19th St Ste 220, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Laila Rashidi is a Colorectal Surgeon practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Rashidi is rated as a Distinguished provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. She is also highly rated in 8 other conditions, according to our data. Her clinical expertise encompasses Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Lynch Syndrome, Bladder Reconstruction, and Endoscopy.

    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer
    Distinguished in Colorectal Cancer

    Northwest Medical Specialties

    1624 S I St Ste 204, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Moacyr Oliveira is an Oncologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Oliveira 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 Thrombocytopenia, Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, and Angiosarcoma.

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

    Franciscan Oncology At St. Joseph

    1617 South J Street, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    "Joseph Rosales, MD, has been a physician for over 20 years and a hematologist-oncologist in Western Washington since 2011 -- in Seattle, Federal Way and Tacoma. He is experienced in general hematology and oncology, with specialties in breast and thoracic oncology. Dr. Rosales considers himself a guide in his patients’ therapeutic journey. He meets his patients wherever they are - physically and emotionally - and strives to provide them the knowledge and perspective required to navigate difficult decisions in their care. His treatment philosophy has been consistent: to make sure that the patient remains in as much control of their care as possible while getting the best care possible.Dr. Rosales also maintains activity within the community, including involvement in oncologic education and advocacy. He received the2022 Binaytara Foundation for Excellence in Cancer Care ""Rising Star in Health Equity"" awardfor his demonstration of excellent leadership in improving cancer care in underprivileged communities.Multidisciplinary Lung Cancer Treatment during Covid-19 Video". Dr. Rosales is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 54 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC), Lung Adenocarcinoma, Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC), ALK-Positive Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer, and Bone Marrow Aspiration. Dr. Rosales is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Subspecialty In Hematology And Medical Oncology. Dr. Rosales is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Franciscan Surgical Associates At St. Joseph

    1708 S Yakima Avenue, Suite 105 & 112, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Nicholas Sich, MD, is board-certified in general surgery and complex general surgical oncology. His areas of expertise include pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, upper and lower gastrointestinal cancer, advanced gynecologic cancer, melanoma, sarcoma and metastatic cancer. He performs minimally invasive and robotic cancer surgery.Dr. Sich strives to ensure his patients retain a sense of control over their care by working as an equal partner throughout their cancer journey. He emphasizes open and honest communication, works to understand his patients’ priorities and keep those at the center of their treatment plans, and strives to maintain his patients’ dignity. Dr. Sich eschews the formality of the traditional doctor-patient approach for one that is more informal and relaxed.Dr. Sich is a Fellow of the Society of Surgical Oncology (FSSO) and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). He is a member of the Society of Surgical Oncology and Americas Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association.Dr. Sich is driven to advance cancer care in his community and minimize barriers to treatment. In his free time, he enjoys building and renovating homes with his wife and father as a hobby, along with spending time with his two children.Conditions and Procedures:Advanced gynecologic cancerCRS/HIPEC (Cytoreductive surgery/Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)Liver cancerMelanomaMetastatic cancerMinimally invasive/robotic cancer surgeryPancreatic cancerSarcomaUpper and lower GI malignancy. Dr. Sich 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 Pancreatic Cancer, Pseudomyxoma Peritonei, Familial Pancreatic Cancer, Pancreaticoduodenectomy, and Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery. Dr. Sich is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Tra-Minw, Ps

    2202 S. Cedar St., Suite 200, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Tod Wurst is an Interventional Radiologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Wurst is rated as an Advanced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 24 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Bronchogenic Cyst, Pleurisy, Pleural Effusion, Gastrostomy, and Vertebroplasty. Dr. Wurst is board certified in Radiology, Vascular/Interventional. Dr. Wurst is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Tra-Minw, Ps

    2202 S. Cedar St., Suite 200, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Jarvis Chen is an Interventional Radiologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Chen 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 Pleurisy, Pleural Effusion, Ascites, Osteoarthritis, and Gastrostomy. Dr. Chen is board certified in Interventional Radiology. Dr. Chen is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer

    Tra-Minw, Ps

    2202 S. Cedar St., Suite 200, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Charles Leusner is a Radiologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Leusner is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 33 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Gallbladder Disease, Diverticular Disease, Pleurisy, and Ascites. Dr. Leusner is board certified in Radiology, Neuro/Interventional. Dr. Leusner is currently accepting new patients.

    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology
    Experienced in Colorectal Cancer
    Gastroenterology

    Franciscan Digestive Care Associates - Pearl Place

    6002 N Westgate Blvd, Suite 230, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (3.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Steven Larson, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with fellowship training in gastroenterology and hepatology. Dr. Larson received his undergraduate and medical degrees as part of a United States Air Force scholarship program.Dr. Larson has published numerous research papers and has presented his research at national meetings. He has a strong interest in treating patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Other areas of interest include capsule endoscopy, colon cancer prevention and functional bowel diseases.He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology, American Gastroenterological Association and the American Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy. Dr. Larson is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 33 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Crohn's Disease, Familial Adenomatous Polyposis, Gardner Syndrome, Endoscopy, and Gastrectomy. Dr. Larson is board certified in American Board Of Internal Medicine, Subspecialty In Gastroenterology. Dr. Larson is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Multicare General Surgery-Puyallup

    1519 3rd St SE Ste 230, 
    Puyallup, WA 
     (8.9 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Offers Telehealth

    Christopher Petty is a General Surgeon practicing medicine in Puyallup, Washington. Dr. Petty 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 Retroperitoneal Inflammation, Colorectal Cancer, Familial Colorectal Cancer, Hemorrhoidectomy, and Small Bowel Resection.

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

    Digestive Health Specialists - Waldron Endoscopy Center

    3209 S 23rd St Ste 350, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (1.6 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Nicholas Sun is an Internal Medicine provider practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Sun is rated as an Experienced provider by MediFind in the treatment of Colorectal Cancer. He is also highly rated in 32 other conditions, according to our data. His clinical expertise encompasses Angiodysplasia of the Colon, Mallory-Weiss Syndrome, Esophageal Varices, Gastrectomy, and Colonoscopy. Dr. Sun is currently accepting new patients.

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

    Tra-Minw, Ps

    2202 S. Cedar St., Suite 200, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (2.0 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Gary Benjamin is an Interventional Radiologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Benjamin 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 Pleurisy, Pleural Effusion, Ascites, Gastrostomy, and Bone Marrow Aspiration. Dr. Benjamin is board certified in Interventional Radiology. Dr. Benjamin is currently accepting new patients.

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

    TRA Medical Imaging - Union

    2502 S Union Avenue, 
    Tacoma, WA 
     (2.3 miles away)
    Languages Spoken:
    English
    Accepting New Patients
    Offers Telehealth

    Howard Sun is an Interventional Radiologist practicing medicine in Tacoma, Washington. Dr. Sun 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 Ascites, Pleurisy, Pleural Effusion, Gastrostomy, and Bone Marrow Aspiration. Dr. Sun is board certified in Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology, and Radiology, Vascular/Interventional. Dr. Sun is currently accepting new patients.

    Showing 1-20 of 92

    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 Tacoma, WA?

    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 Tacoma, WA?

    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 Tacoma, WA?

    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 Tacoma, WA?

    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 Tacoma, WA?

    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 Tacoma, WA?

    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 Tacoma, WA?

    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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