Colorectal Cancer

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to top alternative and integrative options, from specialized treatments available at alternative clinics, to repurposed medications, dietary changes and supplements.

Hyperthermia

Hyperthermia sessions target tumor temperatures of 41.5–42.5°C for about 60 minutes and often paired with chemotherapy drugs. Hyperthermia may be used with radiation and chemotherapy to increase cancer cell sensitivity, enhancing treatment effectiveness.

A Cochrane review found that adding hyperthermia to radiochemotherapy significantly increased complete response rates (2.67 times higher) and improved 2-year survival

For advanced rectal cancer, a study showed that combining hyperthermia with radiotherapy achieved complete symptom relief in 45% of patients for 17 months on average, compared to 25% for 7 months with radiotherapy alone. Another study with reirradiation and hyperthermia showed good symptom control in 72% of patients for 6 months.

In locally advanced and recurrent rectal cancer, adding hyperthermia to preoperative chemoradiotherapy resulted in complete tumor regression in 29.8% of patients. Higher tumor temperatures (above 39.9°C) during hyperthermia were associated with better relapse-free survival (66.7% vs 31.3%).

Dendritic Cell Therapy

Dendritic cells are a crucial part of our immune system, responsible for identifying harmful cells, like cancer, and signaling the body to attack them. In DC therapy, doctors "train" dendritic cells using pieces of the tumor, which helps these cells target and destroy cancer cells more accurately. This can slow down or even stop the tumor's growth.

Research shows that advanced colorectal cancer patients who received both DC therapy and chemotherapy had improved survival rates, especially those whose cancer had spread to the liver or lymph nodes (small glands involved in immune function).

Some patients who received DC therapy showed more active immune responses. For example, increased levels of specific markers in their tumor tissue indicated that their immune system was more engaged in fighting the cancer.

Repurposed medications for colorectal cancer have garnered attention due to their potential to provide effective treatment options with well-established safety profiles.

Here are some promising examples:

Niclosamide: Originally an anti-parasitic medication, niclosamide has been identified as a STAT3 inhibitor, enhancing the anticancer effects of chemotherapy in colorectal cancer. Its ability to disrupt cancer cell signaling pathways makes it a strong candidate for repurposing in oncology.

Mebendazole: Another anti-parasitic drug, mebendazole has been explored for its potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells. It may also work synergistically with existing chemotherapy agents to improve treatment outcomes.

Metformin: Commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, metformin has been studied for its anticancer properties, including its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy in colorectal cancer.

Aspirin: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, aspirin has been associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer recurrence and mortality. It is believed to exert its effects by inhibiting pathways involved in cancer progression.

Doxycycline: This antibiotic has been investigated for its potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and metastasis in colorectal cancer. Its repurposing is based on its ability to target specific cellular pathways implicated in cancer development.

These medications require prescriptions by an integrative oncologist specializing in repurposed drugs.

For more information on how you can access these treatments through an online service with an MD specializing in repurposed medications, available in 45 states, click here to learn more.

For colorectal cancer, several supplements have shown potential benefits based on research and clinical studies. Here’s a summary of some of the most promising options:

1. Fenbendazole has shown some potential in early studies for treating colorectal cancer, especially in cells that resist other treatments.

2. Vitamin D: High doses of vitamin D, when combined with chemotherapy, have shown potential in slowing disease progression in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer.

3. Glutamine: Has been ranked highly for reducing hospital stays and the incidence of wound infections in colorectal cancer patients.

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: May help maintain weight and BMI during treatment when used in conjunction with vitamin D.

5. Multivitamin: A daily multivitamin containing antioxidants (vitamins A, C, E), B-complex vitamins, and minerals like magnesium, calcium, zinc, and selenium can support overall health during cancer treatment.

While these supplements show promise, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals before beginning any new supplement regimen. Supplements can interact with medications and may not be appropriate for everyone. A comprehensive treatment plan that incorporates both conventional and alternative approaches, guided by professional advice, is crucial for effectively managing colorectal cancer.

Get your individualized protocol by an integrative oncology healthcare professional here>>

Treatment for colorectal cancer depends on the stage and location of the cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health:

• Surgery: The most common treatment, involving the removal of the cancerous part of the colon or rectum, sometimes along with nearby lymph nodes.
• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells, often used for rectal cancer.
• Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to destroy cancer cells, either before surgery (to shrink tumors) or after surgery (to kill any remaining cancer cells).
• Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs that specifically target cancer cell mechanisms, such as growth factors.
• Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.

Several factors can increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer, including:

• Age: The risk increases significantly after age 50.
• Family History: A family history of colorectal cancer or polyps can increase the risk.
• Personal History of Polyps or Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Conditions like Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis may increase risk.
• Diet: A diet high in red and processed meats, and low in fiber, can increase the risk.
• Lifestyle Factors: Lack of physical activity, obesity, smoking, and heavy alcohol use can contribute to higher risk.
• Genetic Syndromes: Certain inherited conditions, like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), increase the risk.

To reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, consider these preventive measures:

• Regular Screenings: Begin regular colorectal cancer screenings at age 45, or earlier if you have a family history or other risk factors.
• Healthy Diet: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and limit red and processed meats.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption can also lower the risk.
• Genetic Counseling: If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, genetic counseling and testing for inherited syndromes may be recommended.

Colorectal cancer is typically diagnosed through a combination of the following methods:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure that allows a doctor to view the inside of the entire colon and rectum with a flexible camera and take biopsies if necessary.
• Fecal Occult Blood Test (FOBT): A test that checks for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer.
• Sigmoidoscopy: Similar to a colonoscopy, but only examines the rectum and lower part of the colon.
• CT Colonography (Virtual Colonoscopy): A special CT scan that creates detailed images of the colon and rectum.
• Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken from the colon or rectum and examined under a microscope for cancer cells.

• Colorectal cancer is categorized into stages based on the extent of the cancer’s spread:
• Stage 0: Also known as carcinoma in situ, where abnormal cells are only found in the innermost lining of the colon or rectum.
• Stage I: Cancer has grown into the outer layers of the colon or rectum but has not spread outside the wall.
• Stage II: Cancer has spread through the wall of the colon or rectum but has not reached nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread to one or more nearby lymph nodes but not to other parts of the body.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant organs, such as the liver or lungs.

The prognosis for colorectal cancer varies widely depending on the stage at diagnosis:

• Stage 0 and Stage I: These early stages have a high survival rate, with about 90-100% of patients surviving 5 years or more after diagnosis.
• Stage II: The 5-year survival rate ranges from 70% to 87%, depending on whether the cancer has spread through the wall of the colon or rectum.
• Stage III: The 5-year survival rate decreases to about 53-89%, as the cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: The 5-year survival rate drops significantly to around 11-14%, as the cancer has spread to distant organs, though treatments can extend life and improve quality of life.

This overview provides essential information on colorectal cancer, from its definition and types to symptoms, risk factors, stages, diagnosis, treatment, survival rates, and prevention. By staying informed and proactive, individuals can better manage their risk and improve their chances of early detection and successful treatment.

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