Integrating Emotional Support into Colorectal Cancer Treatment: A Critical Component

For countless individuals confronted with a colorectal cancer (CRC) diagnosis, treatment constitutes only a segment of their journey. The emotional turmoil—fear, isolation, strained relationships, and profound physical changes—often remains unacknowledged. Recent findings from the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, shared at the 2025 American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting, reveal that 74 percent of CRC patients feel misunderstood. This concern, voiced by Kim Newcomer, a stage IV survivor and research director at the Alliance, underscores existing gaps in emotional support post-treatment. Alarmingly, 41 percent of patients report waning support after therapy. Moreover, 80 percent noted adverse effects on their sexual intimacy. Newcomer emphasizes that awareness and proactive communication about these challenges are imperative for enhancing patient care and well-being, especially in marginalized communities.