Colorectal Cancer
State-of-the-Art Colorectal Cancer Care
Colon Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Early detection is key to fighting colorectal cancer.
At MetroHealth, we work to educate our community to get screened starting at age 45- or earlier and help those who are uninsured get screened.
Early Detection is Key
Risk factors for colorectal cancer include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Family history
- Lack of physical activity
- Low-fiber or high fat diets, a lack of fruits and vegetables
- Obesity
- Alcohol use
- Tobacco use
Screenings start at 45 or earlier (if you are high risk)
More than 50,000 Americans die of colon cancer each year. When detected early, colon cancer is preventable. If you are at greater risk, you may need to be screened earlier or more often. There are different options for how you are screened depending on your risk factors.
If you think you may be at increased risk for colorectal cancer because of family history or personal experience with colon cancer, colorectal polyps, or inflammatory bowel disease, ask your doctor if you need to be screened earlier or more often.
If you do not have insurance, talk to your provider about how MetroHealth may be able to help you get screened.
MetroHealth offers three important screenings, helping patients prevent colorectal cancer or find it early when treatment often leads to a cure.
FIT Screening
If you have an average to low risk of colorectal screening, a fecal immunochemical test (FIT) is another option.
ColoGuard
If you are at average risk for colon cancer, this is another option that you can do in the comfort of your own home.
Colonoscopy
- You will need a referral from your primary care doctor to undergo a colonoscopy.
- MetroHealth offers colonoscopies at our Cleveland Heights, Main Campus and Parma Medical Center locations.
- To schedule a colonoscopy, call 216-778-5381.
Personalized Colorectal Cancer Treatment
At MetroHealth, our cancer team works together to provide the highest standard of care.
If you are diagnosed with colorectal cancer, our team will work together to discuss your particular case, how to move forward with treatment, and if any current trials make sense for you.
This team approach means that you’ll benefit from years of expertise as we work towards your healthiest possible outcome.
Most colorectal cancers are treatable by surgery. If chemotherapy is required, our advanced team of multidisciplinary oncologists will develop a plan that is best for you.
Recovering from Colorectal Cancer
At MetroHealth, you’ll receive care from our oncology team that has been recognized by the American College of Surgeons for the highest possible level of training and expertise.
With You Every Step
MetroHealth cares for you on every step of your journey:
- You’ll benefit from integrated behavioral health services every step of the way, because mental health plays a vital role in well-being.
- We partner with American Cancer Society, The Greater Cleveland Food Bank, and other community organizations to provide support, resources, and care for patients and families.
Social Workers Available
MetroHealth provides a social worker to help patients navigate their cancer journey and connect with resources. Call 216-778-8204 to connect with a social worker.
The Gathering Place
MetroHealth partners with The Gathering Place to provide individual, group, and family support services, including nutrition and exercise programs, the Regina Brett Wig Salon, special programs, and legal or financial consultation.
Advancing Care Through Research
At MetroHealth, every oncologist participates in research, bringing advances in cancer care directly to your bedside. We address health disparities by enrolling people from minority populations in clinical trials at more than 4 times the national average.
For more information about our studies, or to enroll in a study that might be right for you, contact our oncology team at 216-77-TREAT.
A Team Dedicated to You
The MetroHealth Cancer Institute team is setting a new standard of cancer care in northeast Ohio. MetroHealth offers unmatched, state-of-the-art, and personalized cancer care.
