How is bowel cancer treated?

A bowel resection removes the tumour with a margin of nearby bowel and may involve joining the bowel ends or creating a temporary or lasting stoma. Surgery is often central when the cancer can be removed locally. Chemotherapy may be given before or after surgery, or when cancer has spread, to treat cells beyond the visible tumour.

Radiotherapy is used more often for cancers of the rectum than the colon and can be given before surgery or for symptom control. Targeted medicines act on selected features of cancer cells, while immunotherapy helps the immune system attack cancer in suitable tumour types. If cancer has reached the liver, the team may discuss surgery, ablation or other treatments as part of an individual plan.

Ask the colorectal team to explain the scan, biopsy and molecular findings that shape your plan. Discuss bowel function, nutrition, stoma support, fertility, work and recovery before an operation. Bring a medicine list and tell the team about blood thinners, diabetes, allergies and previous abdominal surgery. If there is a family history, ask whether assessment for Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis is appropriate.

Get urgent help for severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass stool or gas, heavy rectal bleeding, faintness, or fever after treatment. Arrange prompt medical assessment for blood in stool or a persistent change in bowel habits. These symptoms can have several causes and do not by themselves establish bowel cancer.

Where is the cancer and what stage is it? Is surgery recommended, and might I need a stoma? What will pathology and molecular testing add? Could treatment affect bowel control, fertility or sexual function? Which side effects need an urgent call? Who will support recovery at home?