Current Research

Research for colorectal cancer is ongoing. The following advances may still be under investigation in clinical trials and may not be approved or available at this time. Always discuss all diagnostic and treatment options with your doctor.

Improved detection methods. Scientists are developing tests to analyze stool samples to detect genetic changes associated with colorectal cancer. By identifying cancer early, doctors have a better chance of curing a person with colorectal cancer. Examining the bowel with a special CT scanning technique, known as virtual colonoscopy, is also under investigation.

Tests to predict the risk of cancer recurrence. Tests that analyze various genes important to tumor growth and spread can help doctors and patients make decisions about whether to receive chemotherapy after treatment. Researchers hope that these tests can spare people with a lower risk of recurrence from the side effects of additional treatment.

Cancer vaccines. Cancer vaccines are a type of biologic therapy, also called immunotherapy. They are investigational treatments that stimulate the patient's own immune system to fight cancer.

Learn more about clinical trials and find a clinical trial.