Advanced bowel cancer

Advanced bowel (colorectal) cancer is cancer that started in either the back passage (rectum) or large bowel (colon) and has spread to another part of the body.

The treatment depends on a number of factors including where the cancer is in your body. Treatment can include chemotherapy, surgery, targeted cancer drugs, immunotherapy and radiotherapy.

What is advanced bowel cancer?

Advanced bowel cancer is cancer that has spread from the back passage (rectum) and large intestines (colon) to other parts of the body, such as the liver. 

Symptoms of advanced bowel cancer

The symptoms of advanced bowel cancer can include tiredness, loss of appetite and low energy. 

Treatment for advanced bowel cancer

Treatment for advanced bowel cancer can help to reduce symptoms, make you feel better and sometimes help you live longer. 

Living with advanced bowel cancer

Get support to cope with emotional, practical and physical issues when you have advanced bowel cancer.

Last reviewed: 
02 Mar 2022
Next review due: 
02 Mar 2025