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Every year, about 150,000 Americans learn that they have colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S. (not counting skin cancer). It is also the third-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. at about 52,000 people annually.

Overall, the rate of colorectal cancer diagnoses has dropped each year since the mid-1980s, reports the American Cancer Society. However, the rate of colorectal cancer is increasing by 1% to 2% in people under age 50.

People younger than 50 who develop colorectal cancer often have a family history of the disease. Inherited disease is frequently more aggressive and diagnosed at an advanced stage.

Colorectal cancer is often deadly when it is diagnosed at an advanced stage. When it is diagnosed early, about 90% of patients will still be alive in five years. That is why colon cancer screenings are so important.

What Happens After Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis?

After a colorectal cancer diagnosis, your doctor will work with other experts to develop a treatment plan. They will consider:

• The exact location of the colorectal tumor, as left-side and right-side tumors have different outlooks.
• The tumor’s stage. Is the tumor confined to the colon’s inner lining or has it spread outside the colon?
• Whether lymph nodes are involved. If so, how many?
• The tumor’s molecular profile. Does it have genetic mutations that doctors can target?
• Your family history of colorectal cancer.
• Your overall health.
• Your personal preferences.
• Any other relevant information.

A colon cancer treatment plan usually includes surgery to remove the tumor and nearby tissue. You will also probably need chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Your care team will determine the right order for your treatments. Depending on your tumor stage and type, your doctor may also recommend targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Your treatment plan will be specific to your exact diagnosis and stage. It may differ from other people who have a colon cancer diagnosis.

What Are the Benefits of Getting a Second Opinion for Colon Cancer?

There are benefits to getting a second opinion when you are diagnosed with colon cancer. It may help you feel more comfortable with your diagnosis and treatment plan. You might also want the peace of mind that comes from knowing that experts agree.

More reasons for getting a second opinion include:

• You have a rare or unusual cancer.
• You think another treatment might be available.
• You think your doctor is underestimating how serious your cancer is.
• You want to be sure you have explored all options. Your doctor gives you a few different treatment options.
• Your doctor is not a specialist in your type of cancer.
• Your doctor is not sure what is wrong with you.
• Your doctor tells you there is uncertainty about the type or stage of cancer you have.
• Your insurance company asks you to get another opinion before you start treatment.
• You’re having trouble understanding and communicating with your doctor, or you want your options explained by someone else.

Do You Have Time to Get a Second Opinion for Colon Cancer Before Starting Treatment?

If you are concerned about waiting to start treatment until you have had time to get a second opinion, you should talk to your doctor. If you do have time, you can and should weigh all of the potential options.

Your doctor will not be offended that you want to seek a second opinion. They may recommend a doctor or cancer center to you.

Contact your health insurance company to find out if your policy covers a second opinion. If so, that doctor may need to be part of your health plan for them to cover your visit. Your insurance company may even require you to get a second opinion before you start treatment.

Treatment decisions should be made after you have learned all you can about your diagnosis, prognosis, and options.

How Do You Prepare for a Second Opinion Visit?

To prepare for your appointment to get a second opinion, have a copy of your exact diagnosis and stage. Bring copies of your test results, including imaging, blood tests, genomic profiling, and pathology reports.

You should also bring:

• A list of all current medications, including dosages.
• Any hospital discharge summaries.
• Report from any biopsy or surgery.
• Your treatment plan, indicating all available options.

Ask both doctors the same key questions:

• Did you consult any other doctors about my case, including a pathologist, surgeon, medical oncologist, or radiation oncologist?
• How did you establish my diagnosis?
• How did you make my treatment plan?
• What research studies or professional guidelines did you consult?
• What test results went into my diagnosis and treatment plan.

Each of the doctors you see may agree on a diagnosis or treatment plan. They might also have different opinions. At some point, you will have to decide on the course of action that makes sense to you.

Can I Get a Second Opinion for Colon Cancer at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center?

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center offers a second opinion service that might make all the difference to you and your family.

UPMC is the only cancer center in western Pennsylvania selected by the National Cancer Institute as a Comprehensive Cancer Center. As a top cancer program, UPMC offers access to renowned experts and close to 400 clinical trials. You will also have access to world-class treatments backed by best practices and leading-edge protocols.

If you are currently seeing a UPMC cancer doctor in our system, you are already receiving this great care. That’s because our special network of Clinical Pathways means that multiple cancer experts automatically review your treatment plan.

If you see a doctor outside of the UPMC system, a second opinion by a Hillman Cancer Center doctor may be a good way to gain peace of mind. When you call 1-888-9-HILLMAN, a trained coordinator will explain your options.

We know how important answers are when you have cancer. That’s why you’ll receive the first available appointment for a second opinion. We will coordinate needed care throughout your visit.

Editor's Note: This article was originally published on November 30, 2023, and was last reviewed on March 28, 2025.