Colorectal Cancer

In 2017, nearly 2500 Albertans will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer.

These are not just statistics. These are our loved ones, our neighbours, our friends. Currently, radiation and chemotherapy treatments are based mainly on practical experience, not on a thorough understanding of the biology of cancer cells. Researchers know that radiation and many of the most powerful chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells by damaging the cell’s DNA. But a tumour’s DNA repair system is so strong it is often able to resist radiation and chemotherapy, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.

Donate

Thanks to Alberta Cancer Foundation donors, patient navigators have been in existence since 2012 at the 15 regional and community cancer centres across Alberta. As registered nurses with specialized training in cancer care, patient navigators explain treatment choices and test results, and assist with the physical, practical and emotional challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis.

Going forward, don’t think that the only measure of success is a cure for cancer. This type of research will make treatments easier for people like me and improve our chance of success. That's all I can ask for.

- Colin Hackett

We have committed $2.9 million to a colorectal research program that will make life better for Albertans facing this disease.

FAMILY FIRST: When not training for his next triathlon, Colin Hackett is making the most of his time by spending as much time as he can with his wife, Kim, and their four children.
Photo by Cooper & O’Hara

Currently, radiation and chemotherapy treatments are based mainly on practical experience, not on a thorough understanding of the biology of cancer cells. Researchers know that radiation and many of the most powerful chemotherapy drugs kill cancer cells by damaging the cell’s DNA. But a tumour’s DNA repair system is so strong it is often able to resist radiation and chemotherapy, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.

With your help, we can change that.

Be part of our $2.9 million investment that will help improve survival rates for colorectal cancer patients in Alberta and improve their quality of life while they undergo treatment. Help us change those statistics.

Invest in the Alberta Cancer Foundation and help us making life better for Albertans facing cancer.

Resources

Leap Magazine Articles

Seven-time Ironman triathlete Colin Hackett prepares for his biggest obstacle yet – a cancer diagnosis.

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Colorectal Cancer in Canada by the numbers.

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Through screening programs, healthy living and some genetic learning, Albertans are doing their best to be proactive against cancer.

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Colonoscopies could soon be a thing of the past for some Albertans, with the advent of a new home stool test to screen for colorectal cancer.

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Reports

Enhanced therapies for colorectal cancer. $2.9 million over 4 years.

View 2015 Report PDF