Research for colorectal cancer is ongoing. The following advances may still be under investigation in clinical trials and may not be approved or available at this time. Always discuss all diagnostic and treatment options with your doctor.

Improved detection methods. Scientists are developing tests to analyze stool samples to detect genetic changes associated with colorectal cancer. By identifying cancer early, doctors have a better chance of curing a person with colorectal cancer. Examining the bowel with a special CT scanning technique, known as virtual colonoscopy, is also under investigation.

Cancer vaccines. Cancer vaccines are a type of biologic therapy. They are experimental treatments that stimulate the patient's own immune system to fight cancer.

Combination therapy. Researchers are learning that combining different treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, is an efficient way to treat cancer.