Hearing that someone you love has colon cancer can feel scary and confusing. You want clear answers and a solid plan. At Gastrodoxs.com, we’re here to help families in Houston understand treatment choices and feel more confident. This guide walks you through the basics and options, with insights from Dr. Bharat Pothuri. Let’s take it one step at a time.
Colon cancer starts when cells in the colon grow out of control. Early detection improves treatment success. Here’s what you should know:
Why it matters: Knowing the basics helps you make informed choices for your loved one.
Early signs often lead to earlier care. Men and women may have similar symptoms. Watch for:
Not always. But if it happens with bleeding, pain, or weight loss, see a doctor.
Dr. Pothuri shares: “Many people noticed small changes in stool color or shape. Those signs can be early warnings. Don’t ignore them.”
Doctors use staging to find out how far cancer has spread. It also helps choose the right treatment.
Key Fact: Survival rates range from 90% in Stage 1 to 14% in Stage 4. Early detection makes a big difference.
Doctors often use a mix of treatments. These include:
Surgery is often the first step for Stages 1–3. It removes the tumor and nearby lymph nodes if needed.
Dr. Pothuri says: “In Houston, we try minimally invasive methods when possible. They help patients heal faster with less pain.”
Chemotherapy uses medicine to kill cancer cells. It’s often used after surgery to prevent the cancer from coming back.
Common drug combos: FOLFOX, CAPEOX, and FOLFIRI. Side effects like nausea or tiredness are managed with other meds.
Radiation uses powerful rays to kill cancer cells. It’s used more for rectal cancer but can help in some colon cases.
These drugs attack cancer cells based on their unique features. They don’t hurt most healthy cells.
Dr. Pothuri adds: “If a tumor has the right marker, targeted therapy can work really well.”
Immunotherapy helps your immune system fight cancer. It works best for certain types of tumors.
Pembrolizumab is one of the newer drugs showing strong results.
Trials offer new treatments not widely available yet.
Ask your doctor about trials at MD Anderson or Baylor in Houston.
This care focuses on comfort and quality of life.
Gastrodoxs often refers families to support programs in Houston, like MD Anderson’s team.
| Treatment | Stage 3 Colon Cancer | Stage 4 Colon Cancer |
| Surgery | Colectomy + lymph nodes | Remove main tumor if possible |
| Chemotherapy | After surgery | To shrink and manage cancer |
| Radiation Therapy | Rare unless rectal involvement | Used to ease symptoms |
| Targeted Therapy | If tumor has specific traits | Common with chemo |
| Immunotherapy | For MSI-H tumors | For MSI-H or after chemo failure |
| Palliative Care | Manages symptoms | Focuses on comfort and support |
Caregiving is tough. Houston has help:
Dr. Pothuri reminds families: “You need care too. Rest, ask for help, and lean on local support.”
Houston has top-tier cancer care:
Ongoing care helps catch problems early.
Colon cancer affects mental health too. Encourage:
Dr. Pothuri says: “Emotional health is part of the healing process.”
A healthy routine supports recovery.
A dietitian can help with a custom meal plan.
Cancer care can be expensive, but help is out there:
Stick to reliable health websites:
Helping a loved one with colon cancer is tough, but you're not alone. With the right mix of care—surgery, drugs, support—and Houston’s top resources, you can move forward with hope. Dr. Pothuri says, “Each patient deserves care that fits them. We work to make that happen.”
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Tiredness, change in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal pain, and unexplained weight loss.
Stage 3 involves nearby lymph nodes. Stage 4 means cancer has spread to distant organs.
Sometimes. If you experience leakage with bleeding or pain, see a doctor right away.
About 90% for Stage 1, 71% for Stage 2, 53% for Stage 3, and 14% for Stage 4.
Yes. MD Anderson, Baylor, and other centers run trials. Ask your oncologist for details.
Look for blood in stool, persistent bowel changes, and unexplained fatigue.
It boosts your immune system to fight cancer, especially in MSI-H tumors.
Generally every 1–3 years post-treatment, based on disease stage and doctor’s advice.
Counseling, support groups at Memorial Hermann, Houston Methodist, and online communities.
Yes. A high-fiber diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight help support recovery.
