Key Points:

• The primary goal of follow-up care for colorectal cancer is to find and remove cancer that has returned after treatment.
• Follow-up care for colorectal cancer includes regular physical examinations, CEA tests, and colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, and may include CT scans.
• Talk with your doctor about creating an appropriate follow-up care plan.

To help doctors give their patients the best possible care, the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) asks its medical experts to develop recommendations for specific areas of cancer care. In 2000, ASCO issued clinical practice guidelines for follow-up care for people with colorectal cancer to help reduce the risk of recurrence (return of the cancer). These guidelines were updated in 2005 to reflect changes in the treatment and monitoring of colorectal cancer. This guide for patients is based on ASCO's recommendations.

As you read this guide, please keep in mind that every person treated for cancer is different. These recommendations are not meant to replace your judgment or that of your doctor. The final decisions you and your doctors make will be based on your individual circumstances.