Closing the Care Gap in Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a sobering public health challenge in the United States, even in the era of advanced screening and improved treatments. In 2025, approximately 107,320 new colon cancer cases and 46,950 rectal cancer cases are expected, totaling more than 150,000 CRC diagnoses.¹ While incidence has declined about 1% per year since the early 2010s among older adults, it’s alarmingly rising, by about 2.4% annually, among those under age 50.¹

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When considered across both sexes, colorectal cancer ranks as the second most common cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S., with an estimated 52,900 deaths in 2025.¹ Despite gains from screening and early detection, many cases still go undetected or are diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment is more difficult and outcomes are poorer.

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Survival statistics underline the importance of timely diagnosis. For colon cancer, the 5-year relative survival is:

• 91% if localized
• 73% if regional spread
• 13% if distant metastases are present²

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For rectal cancer, 5-year survival rates are similarly stark:

• 90% if localized
• 74% if regional spread
• 18% if distant metastases are present²

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Across all stages, the combined 5-year survival hovers near 63% for colon and 67% for rectal cancer.² These figures emphasize how critical it is to detect CRC early, when interventions are far more effective.

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On the prevention and risk side, modifiable lifestyle factors account for more than half of all CRC cases.³ Risks include:

• Excess body weight (particularly in men)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Diets high in red and processed meats
• Diets low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Smoking
• Alcohol consumption⁴

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Other contributors include a family history of CRC or polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis), and certain inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis.⁴ While some risk factors cannot be changed, like age, sex, or ethnicity, targeting the modifiable ones offers a powerful path toward prevention.

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Yet, despite these well-documented risks and screening recommendations, many people still face delayed diagnosis and with it, elevated fear, uncertainty, and worse health outcomes.

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That’s Where Kadance Makes a Difference

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Proactive Benefits for All Members

• Hereditary cancer risk testing helps identify individuals at increased risk before cancer develops, so they can take proactive steps.
• Pharmacogenomic testing and ongoing medication optimization provide insights into how members’ bodies may respond to medications, helping to optimize safety and effectiveness. While particularly valuable for cancer treatment planning, this information benefits anyone currently taking or who may take prescription medications in the future.

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Comprehensive, Personalized Support for Members Diagnosed with Cancer

• Advanced molecular testing gives a clearer picture of the cancer’s unique biology to guide precise, personalized treatment decisions.
• Oncology nurse navigators, who serve as steadfast allies, walk patients through each step of their care journey, from diagnosis to treatment and survivorship.
• Access to second opinions helps members receive additional expert perspectives to feel confident in their treatment decisions.
• Guidance with clinical trial options, supporting members in understanding and navigating the clinical trial process, and helping them explore potential opportunities when appropriate.

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When you face the unexpected, you deserve more than coverage; you deserve confidence and care.

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Sources:

1. American Cancer Society. (2025, January 10). Key statistics for colorectal cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/about/key-statistics.html. Accessed August 15, 2025.
2. American Cancer Society. (2025, January 10). Survival rates for colorectal cancer. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/survival-rates.html. Accessed August 15, 2025.
3. American Cancer Society. (2023). Colorectal cancer facts & figures 2023-2025. https://www.cancer.org/content/dam/cancer-org/research/cancer-facts-and-statistics/colorectal-cancer-facts-and-figures/colorectal-cancer-facts-and-figures-2023.pdf. Accessed August 15, 2025.
4. American Cancer Society. (2025, April 29). Colorectal cancer risk factors.
   https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html. Accessed August 15, 2025.

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