Healthy Habits - Colorectal Cancer

 A first-of-its-kind survey reveals crucial insights from hundreds of U.S. patients living with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) - the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.¹ The survey findings highlight an urgent need for educational resources that address both medical information and the realities of daily life with mCRC and provide insights on how patients can feel more empowered to take a more active role in their care.

 

Key Survey Results Include:

• 83% of patients wished for more clarity and information at initial diagnosis.
• 74% of patients felt overwhelmed by the information provided by their HCP when diagnosed.
• Nearly 50% of mCRC patients say a lack of resources may have delayed their diagnosis.
• 43% of patients say they would like more emotional support services.
• 77% of patients are involved in treatment decision making, but 67% still wanted more power.

 

Results are fielded from a 60-question online survey of 344 patient respondents.

 

In this interview, Jenna, who has been living with stage 4 colon cancer for 8 years, will share her story and how she has learned to advocate for herself during her mCRC journey. Jenna was diagnosed about one year after her son was born, after being misdiagnosed during her pregnancy. She is joined by physician, Dr. Amit Mahipal, MD, Professor and Gastrointestinal (GI) Oncology Program Leader at University Hospitals, Case Western University, who will discuss the survey’s insights and provide recommendations for fostering productive dialogue between patients and healthcare providers.

 

About Colorectal Cancer:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.¹
• In 2022, more than 1.9 million new colorectal cancer (CRC) cases and 904,000 deaths were estimated to occur, representing about 1 in 10 cancer cases and deaths.¹
• When people are diagnosed with later stage or more advanced CRC, it is known as metastatic CRC (mCRC).² When a cancer metastasizes, it means that cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body.³
• As many as 50% of all CRC patients eventually progress to metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).⁴