Colorectal Cancer Outcomes

As Georgia's only NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, Winship is among the top tier of cancer centers in the country. Comprehensive Cancer Centers must meet rigorous standards that prove they have state-of-the-art facilities, offer cutting-edge treatments, deliver breakthrough research and conduct lifesaving clinical trials.

Because NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers like Winship represent the most innovative cancer centers in the nation, it’s no surprise they also have the best survival rates. Research shows survival rates are up to 25% higher when starting treatment at an NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center. Researchers attribute these higher survival rates to surgical expertise, guideline compliance, access to clinical trials and team approaches to treatment planning, all of which are paramount at Winship.

Being a colorectal cancer survivor puts you at greater risk for developing the disease again. That’s why Winship is dedicated to offering long-lasting treatment and post-treatment follow-up care and surveillance. In fact, the possibility of recurrence is considered from the very beginning when designing your treatment plan. Analyzing your specific colorectal cancer and any hereditary and genomic components driving it help us determine which treatment is most likely to not only successfully treat your cancer but also prevent it from returning.

After successful treatment, we have quality measures in place to confirm you are cancer-free, such as testing surrounding tissue to ensure there’s no remaining cancer after surgery. And once you’ve completed treatment at Winship, we will continue to monitor your condition and follow you for at least five years to ensure you remain cancer-free.

We also conduct research aimed at preventing cancer recurrence. For example, Winship is currently collaborating in a clinical trial to test the effectiveness of a drug that could prevent future polyp formation in early-stage colorectal cancer survivors. Additionally, we are pioneering research into effective methods for detecting recurrent colorectal cancer in its earliest stages. 

When it comes to colorectal cancer outcomes, it’s important to consider quality-of-life issues, such as short-term side effects, long-term side effects of cancer and its treatments, faster recovery from surgery and the ability to return to your regular activities. At Winship, we take all of these aspects into account when weighing your treatment options and developing new ones.

During treatment, you will receive the most powerful and precise treatments available with the least adverse side effects. You’ll receive minimally invasive surgery whenever possible to minimize the risks associated with open procedures and reduce your recovery time. We’ll take steps to reduce common side effects of colorectal cancer, such as bowel problems and the need for a permanent ostomy bag. And we will work with you on symptom management as well as coping with the psychological and emotional aspects of colorectal cancer treatment for as long as you need us.