Colon, Rectum and Anus Cancers

Radiation therapy is a key part of treatment for cancer of the lower gastrointestinal tract, including anal and colorectal cancers. While anal cancer is uncommon (with about 10,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States), colorectal cancer is the third most diagnosed cancer in the United States. Radiation therapy is often used to treat these cancers by killing cancer cells while preserving your normal organs. Treatments may also involve chemotherapy, immunotherapy and/ or surgery. Your pesonalized treatment plan will be based on your cancer’s location, type and stage, as well as your overall health.

In 2025, it is estimated that 107,320 Americans will be diagnosed with colon cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and women. 46,950 men and women will be diagnosed with rectal cancer. In addition, about 10,930 people will learn they have anal cancer. Patients with these types of cancers often benefit from radiation therapy as part of treatment. Some cancers involving the bowel run within families (hereditary colorectal cancers). It is important to discuss your diagnosis with family members so they can decide with their doctors whether they need to be screened for colorectal cancers. This is especially important if you were diagnosed with a colorectal cancer before age 50 or if there are several other types of cancers that run in your family.