Immunotherapy and colorectal cancer: Where we are and what’s ahead
The immune system defends the body from viruses and bacteria. But it’s not as successful in killing cancer on its own. Immune checkpoint inhibitors – a type of immunotherapy – harness the immune system to treat many types of cancers, including colorectal cancer.
They work by blocking signals in a tumor that stop the immune system from working. By preventing these signals, checkpoint inhibitors allow immune cells – called T cells...
Stage III colon cancer survivor grateful for MD Anderson’s expertise
There was a point during colorectal cancer treatment when Tommy Allen didn’t think he was going to live. He was in pain 24 hours a day, the...
Colon cleanse: Health or hype?
You’ve probably heard that flushing out your colon can improve your health.
Ads for colon cleansing claim health benefits such as weight...
What is a total pelvic exenteration?
“Exenteration” refers to a complex surgery in which organs, bones and other structures are removed from the pelvis in order to treat cancer. A pelvic exenteration might involve the bladder, rectum, anus and/or sacrum (tailbone), as well as the prostate gland in men and the vagina and/or uterus in women.
While this procedure may sound fairly extreme, it is often the best — and only potentially curative — option for some...
Which blood tests show cancer?
PSA tests can detect elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen in the blood, which are sometimes a sign of prostate cancer. And complete...
Colon cancer in young adults: What you need to know
Colorectal cancer cases are on the decline overall. Research shows this is because more people are getting regular colorectal cancer...
What are the risk factors for colorectal cancer?
Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the colon or the rectum. It is the fourth most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S.<...
Colorectal cancer nurse inspired by patients every day
Regina Dela Cruz knows that being an oncology nurse is not for the faint of heart. But the inspiration she receives from her patients makes...
11 things to know about alcohol and cancer
It can feel like there are always opportunities to have a drink: Mimosas at brunch. A glass of wine at happy hour. A nightcap after a long...
5 precancerous conditions and what you can do about them
You may already know that some types of colon polyps can develop into colorectal cancer. Or, that cervical dysplasia can sometimes lead to...