Advanced colorectal cancer care in southwest Virginia
The best weapons against colorectal cancer are knowledge and early diagnosis and treatment. At LewisGale Regional Health System, we offer leading-edge resources to screen for and treat colorectal cancer in its earliest stages.
To learn more about our colorectal cancer services, please call askSARAH at (540) 795-6161.
What is colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins inside the colon or rectum. It often starts as a small growth (or polyp). Over time, polyps can grow into the walls of the colon or rectum causing cancer cells to enter into lymph vessels or blood vessels.
Our health system's extensive cancer care services offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for colorectal cancer. When detected early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable, and our expert oncologists are here to provide the care you need.
Find locations for this service on our Oncology pageColorectal cancer treatment options
When it comes to colorectal cancer treatment, our goal is to preserve the colon and rectum's tissue and function while eliminating as much of the cancer as possible. Our talented team at LewisGale Regional Health System will work with you to find the best course of treatment.
Your rectal or colon cancer treatment plan may include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy, available at LewisGale Pulaski and LewisGale Salem
- Medications
Risk factors for colorectal cancer
Early detection of colorectal cancer is the key to getting the best possible outcome. This is why it's important to know if you are at risk. Some of the risk factors for colorectal cancer include:
- You have an immediate family member who has received a colorectal cancer diagnosis
- Personal history of inflammatory bowel disease
- Personal history of breast, ovarian or uterine cancer
- 40 percent or more over your ideal body weight (obese)
- A diet high in fat and low in fiber
- You are 50 years old or older
- Diarrhea or constipation lasting more than two weeks
- A persistent decrease in the size or caliber of your stool
Colon cancer screening
At LewisGale Regional Health System, our team is committed to your overall health and disease prevention. We use the latest diagnostic and treatment technologies to detect and remove any suspicious polyps. The best place to start is with our colonoscopy services.
A colonoscopy identifies any areas of concern developing in your colon with the use of a small camera. The entire process takes about half an hour and is generally pain-free.
If polyps are identified in your colon, the doctor will send them to the lab for a biopsy. We recommend patients begin regular colon cancer screenings starting at 50 years old.
About Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute
As part of Sarah Cannon, the Cancer Institute of HCA Healthcare, our family of hospitals provides comprehensive cancer services with convenient access to cutting-edge therapies for people facing cancer in our communities. From diagnosis to treatment and survivorship care, our oncology expertise ensures you have access to locally trusted care with the support of a globally recognized network.
askSARAH helpline
Have cancer questions? We can help. askSARAH is a dedicated helpline for your cancer-related questions. Our specially trained nurses are available 24/7, and all calls are confidential. Contact askSARAH at (540) 795-6161 or chat online at askSARAHnow.com.
