Published March 12, 2026

Adv Radiat Oncol. 2025 Nov 9;11(2):101952. doi: 10.1016/j.adro.2025.101952. eCollection 2026 Feb.

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: Although salvage surgery is the standard of care for locoregionally recurrent anal cancer, few local options exist for inoperable pelvic recurrences. Newly diagnosed anal cancer arising in a previously irradiated field also provides a unique treatment challenge, as delivery of standard doses would result in unsafe cumulative dose to pelvic structures. We aimed to evaluate efficacy and toxicity of a hyperfractionated accelerated reirradiation (reRT) regimen for such patients.

METHODS AND MATERIALS: Patients treated with hyperfractionated accelerated reRT at a single institution between 2005 and 2024 for nonmetastatic inoperable locoregionally recurrent anal cancer or primary anal cancer in a previously irradiated field were included. The reRT regimen consisted of 1.5 Gy in twice daily fractions separated by 6 hours to a median (range) of 39 (30-51) Gy. Complete clinical response rates, recurrence rates, and toxicities were reported.

RESULTS: The median (IQR) follow-up was 13.4 (7.5-42.2) months. Twenty-six (74.3%) patients were treated with reRT for recurrent anal cancer, and 9 (25.7%) patients were treated with reRT for a new squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) primary after prior pelvic radiation. The complete clinical response rate was 46.2% among patients with recurrent anal cancer and 77.8% among patients with a new SCCA primary after prior pelvic radiation. Two-year locoregional recurrence rate was 64.0% among patients with recurrent anal cancer and 22.0% among patients treated with reRT for a new SCCA primary after prior pelvic radiation. Eight patients (22.9%) developed acute grade 3 toxicity and 10 (28.6%) developed late grade 3-4 toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS: Hyperfractionated accelerated reRT results in promising complete clinical response rates that appear to translate into durable pelvic control for patients with recurrent anal cancer or a new SCCA primary after prior pelvic radiation. Acute toxicity appears similar to initial standard chemoradiation, but limiting reRT doses to 39 Gy may reduce the risk of serious late toxicity.

PMID:41726003 | PMC:PMC12918202 | DOI:10.1016/j.adro.2025.101952

Published March 12, 2026

Sci Rep. 2026 Feb 13. doi: 10.1038/s41598-026-39644-8. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Somatic mutations in KRAS are a common driver of colorectal cancer (CRC) and present at different frequencies by race, sex, tumor site, ethnicity, and genetic similarity. Inherited germline variants may influence tumor somatic mutation frequency by altering mutation or DNA repair processes or altering cellular, immunological and/or microenvironmental responses after a mutation. We hypothesized that the germline genetic background modifies somatic KRAS mutation frequency in CRC. To test this, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in 7071 individuals with CRC, using KRAS mutation status as the phenotype. Single-nucleotide variants were chosen for validation analyses based on P values from the discovery GWAS, predicted in silico functional effects, and proximity to genes with potential cancer relevance. A validation analysis of 101 SNVs of interest was performed in 2482 individuals. No SNVs were significantly associated with KRAS-mutant CRC (P value < 0.0005). One variant rs73067863-T showed a non-significant exploratory association with fewer KRAS-mutant tumors in the combined sample (P value = 9.7 × 10-7, OR = 0.75). Follow-up studies are needed to determine if these or other germline variants impact population differences in KRAS mutations in CRC.

PMID:41688657 | DOI:10.1038/s41598-026-39644-8

Published March 12, 2026

BMC Med. 2026 Feb 5;24(1):146. doi: 10.1186/s12916-026-04675-5.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Physical activity is an established protective factor for colorectal cancer (CRC), but it is unclear if genetic variants modify this effect. To investigate this possibility, we conducted a genome-wide gene-physical activity interaction analysis.

METHODS: Using logistic regression (1-d.f), two-step screening and testing method (EDGE), and joint tests (3-d.f), we analyzed interactions between common genetic variants across the genome and physical activity in relation to CRC risk. Self-reported physical activity levels were categorized as active (≥ 8.75 MET-h/wk) vs. inactive (< 8.75 MET-h/wk; 39,992 participants) and as study- and sex-specific quartiles of activity (42,602 participants).

RESULTS: Physical activity was inversely associated with CRC risk overall (OR [active vs. inactive] = 0.85; 95% CI = 0.81-0.90). The two-step EDGE method identified an interaction between rs4779584, an intergenic variant near the GREM1 and SCG5 genes, and physical activity for CRC risk (p-interaction = 2.6 × 10-8). Stratification by genotype at this locus showed a significant reduction in CRC risk by 20% in active vs. inactive participants with the CC genotype (OR = 0.80; 95% CI = 0.75-0.85), but no significant physical activity-CRC associations among CT or TT carriers. When physical activity was modeled as quartiles, the 1-d.f. test identified that rs56906466, an intergenic variant near the KCNG1 gene, modified the association between physical activity and CRC (p-interaction = 3.5 × 10-8). Stratification at this locus showed that an increase in physical activity (highest vs. lowest quartile) was associated with a lower CRC risk solely among TT carriers (OR = 0.77; 95% CI = 0.72-0.82).

CONCLUSIONS: In summary, we identified two genetic variants that modified the association between physical activity and CRC risk. One of them, related to GREM1 and SCG5, suggests that the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)-related, inflammatory, and/or insulin signaling pathways may be involved in the protective association between physical activity and colorectal carcinogenesis.

PMID:41645200 | PMC:PMC12973902 | DOI:10.1186/s12916-026-04675-5

Published March 11, 2026

Clinical Trials Roundup

Curated by Fight CRC’s Medical Advisory Board & Research Advocacy Training and Support (RATS) team.

This month, we’re spotlighting trials that reflect a growing national investment in colorectal cancer research, and what that means for you. From precision medicine to next-generation trial platforms, these studies are designed to expand options, personalize care, and improve how research works for patients. 

Clinical trials don’t just test treatments; they shape the future of care. And staying informed gives you more power in your treatment journey.  

Need help understanding clinical trials or biomarker testing? See our biomarker resources here.

March 2026

1. ARPA-H ADAPT Oncology Platform – Colorectal Cohort 

Biomarker Focus: Real-time biomarker integration and adaptive trial infrastructure 
Phase / Sites: Early research initiative / United States 
Stage: Colorectal cancer (see eligibility criteria in protocol) 
Recruitment Status: Not yet recruiting 
What it’s studying: This ARPA-H supported initiative is part of the ADAPT oncology platform, designed to modernize how cancer clinical trials are conducted. The platform integrates advanced biomarker monitoring, coordinated data systems, and adaptive treatment strategies to accelerate therapeutic development in CRC and other cancers. 
Why it matters: Rather than testing a single drug, this national investment focuses on transforming the clinical trial system itself — potentially speeding up how promising treatments move from concept to clinic. 
Patient Tip: Even if enrollment hasn’t begun, ask your care team about upcoming federally funded research programs that may open new opportunities. 
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT07318389

2. Molecularly Guided Therapy Based on Tumor Genetics: NCI-MATCH 

Biomarker Focus: Actionable genetic mutations 
Phase / Sites: Phase 2 / Nationwide (NCI-sponsored) 
Stage: Advanced solid tumors, including colorectal cancer 
Recruitment Status: Active, not recruiting 
What it’s studying: NCI-MATCH assigns treatment based on specific genetic mutations found in a tumor rather than the cancer’s location in the body. Patients with colorectal cancer whose tumors harbor actionable mutations may be matched to targeted therapies designed for those alterations. 
Why it matters: This national precision-medicine trial helped redefine how we think about treatment selection. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, MATCH reflects a shift toward therapy guided by tumor biology. 
Patient Tip: If you’ve had comprehensive genomic testing, ask whether your tumor’s mutations may qualify you for a MATCH sub-study. 
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02465060

3. COBRA Trial: ctDNA-Guided Predictor in Stage IIA 

Biomarker Focus: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) 
Phase / Sites: Phase 2/3 / U.S. cooperative groups 
Stage: Stage II colon cancer 
Recruitment Status: Active 
What it’s studying: The COBRA study evaluates whether ctDNA testing after surgery can identify patients who truly need chemotherapy and who may safely avoid it. 
Why it matters: This study reflects the growing role of blood-based biomarkers in guiding adjuvant therapy, with the goal of reducing overtreatment while maintaining excellent outcomes. 
Patient Tip: If you have stage II colon cancer, ask whether ctDNA testing is appropriate for you and whether participation in a biomarker-guided trial is an option. 
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04068103

4. SWOG S2107: Immunotherapy Strategies in MSS Metastatic CRC 

Biomarker Focus: Microsatellite stable (MSS) and BRAF V600E mutation 
Phase / Sites: Phase 2 / National cooperative group (SWOG) 
Stage: Previously treated metastatic colorectal cancer 
Recruitment Status: Recruiting 
What it’s studying: This study is testing whether adding nivolumab (immunotherapy) to encorafenib + cetuximab improves outcomes in BRAF V600E/MSS metastatic CRC. 
Why it matters: Approximately 85–90% of colorectal cancers are MSS. Expanding immunotherapy strategies for this population remains one of the most urgent research priorities in CRC, and to a population that historically does not benefit from single-agent checkpoint inhibitors. 
Patient Tip: If you’ve been told your tumor is MSS and that immunotherapy alone is unlikely to work, ask whether combination immunotherapy trials are available at your treatment center. 
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04963283 

5. CIRCULATE-US (NRG-GI008) — ctDNA-Guided Adjuvant Strategy in Stage II/III 

Biomarker Focus: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) 
Phase / Sites: Phase II/III / North America (NRG Oncology) 
Stage: Stage II and III (resected) colon cancer 
Recruitment Status: Recruiting 
What it’s studying: This randomized study evaluates whether post-surgical ctDNA testing can guide escalation or de-escalation of chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colon cancer. Patients who test ctDNA-positive may receive intensified therapy, while those who test ctDNA-negative may receive less intensive treatment. 
Why it matters: ctDNA is emerging as a precision tool to detect minimal residual disease and personalize adjuvant therapy decisions. 
Patient Tip: If you’ve had surgery for stage II or III colon cancer, ask whether ctDNA testing or enrollment in a ctDNA-guided trial is appropriate for you. 
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT05174169 

February 2026

1. BRAFTOVI® + Cetuximab + FOLFIRI — New Triplet Regimen for BRAF V600E mCRC

Biomarker Focus: BRAF V600E mutation
Phase / Sites: Phase 2 / Multinational (Pfizer-sponsored)
Stage: Metastatic (mCRC)
Recruitment Status: Active, not recruiting
What it’s studying: This study evaluates the combination of encorafenib + cetuximab + FOLFIRI in patients with previously treated, BRAF V600E-mutated metastatic CRC.
Findings: Results from ASCO GI 2026 show a significant increase in overall response rates (ORR) and progression-free survival compared to historical controls.
Why it matters: Offers a promising targeted therapy option earlier in the treatment journey for patients with BRAF-mutant CRC.
Patient Tip: If your tumor is BRAF V600E-positive and you’ve been previously treated, ask your care team about this combination.
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04607421

2. CIRCULATE-North America (NRG-GI008) — ctDNA-Guided Adjuvant Therapy in Stage II/III CRC

Biomarker Focus: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)
Phase / Sites: Phase II/III / North America (NRG Oncology)
Stage: Stage II and III (resected)
Recruitment Status: Recruiting
What it’s studying: This randomized trial evaluates whether ctDNA testing after surgery can guide the need for adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colon cancer. Patients with detectable ctDNA may receive intensified treatment, while ctDNA-negative patients may avoid unnecessary chemotherapy.
Presented: ASCO GI 2026
Why it matters: ctDNA is emerging as a precision tool for assessing minimal residual disease (MRD). This trial could help patients avoid overtreatment—or identify recurrence risk earlier.
Patient Tip: If you’ve had surgery for stage II or III colon cancer, ask if ctDNA testing might inform your follow-up care plan.
ClinicalTrials.gov: ASCO Abstract: NRG-GI008

3. KEYNOTE-975 Subanalysis — Pembrolizumab in dMMR/MSI-H mCRC

Biomarker Focus: dMMR / MSI-H
Phase / Sites: Phase 3 / Global
Stage: Metastatic
Recruitment Status: Ongoing
What it’s studying: Examining the efficacy of pembrolizumab as a first-line treatment for dMMR/MSI-H metastatic CRC.
Findings: Durable responses reported in previously untreated patients, including those with comorbidities and older age groups.
Why it matters: Validates immunotherapy as a frontline option in dMMR CRC—not just for ideal candidates.
Patient Tip: If your tumor is MSI-H or dMMR, ask if you qualify for first-line immunotherapy.
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04003636

4. BEACON-Lite Cohort A — Real-World Evaluation of Triplet Therapy in BRAF CRC

Biomarker Focus: BRAF V600E mutation
Phase / Sites: Phase 2 / Expanded access
Stage: Metastatic
Recruitment Status: Closed to new participants
What it’s studying: A cohort evaluating encorafenib + cetuximab + chemotherapy in patients not eligible for the original BEACON trial.
Findings: Preliminary real-world data shows efficacy in older patients and those with comorbidities.
Why it matters: Supports more inclusive criteria for accessing promising triplet regimens.
Patient Tip: If you were previously excluded from BRAF-targeted trials, ask if real-world data may now support this approach.
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02928224

January 2026

1. BREAKWATER Trial — Triplet Therapy Sets New Standard for BRAF V600E mCRC

Biomarker Focus: BRAF V600E mutation
Phase / Sites: Phase 3 / Multi-national
Stage: Stage IV (metastatic)
Recruitment Status: Completed (Phase 3)
What it’s studying: Encorafenib + cetuximab + FOLFIRI vs chemotherapy in first-line mCRC
Findings: PFS nearly doubled (12.8 vs 7.1 months); OS improved to 30.3 vs 15.1 months
Why it matters: A new triplet could replace chemo as the standard for BRAF-mutated mCRC
Patient Tip: If you have BRAF V600E-mutant CRC and are starting first-line treatment, ask whether this triplet regimen is being considered.
ClinicalTrials.gov: N/A

2. ATOMIC Trial — Atezolizumab + Chemo in Stage III dMMR CRC

Biomarker Focus: Mismatch repair deficiency (dMMR / MSI-H)
Phase / Sites: Phase 3 / Multi-center
Stage: Stage III (resected)
Recruitment Status: Completed
What it’s studying: mFOLFOX6 with or without atezolizumab after surgery in stage III colon cancer
Findings: 3-year disease-free survival improved to 86.4% vs 76.6%
Why it matters: May change adjuvant therapy for early-stage dMMR CRC
Patient Tip: If your tumor is MSI-H/dMMR and you’re receiving adjuvant chemo, ask whether immunotherapy was considered or studied in your care setting.
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02912559

3. IVX037 + Sintilimab in MSS CRC — RNA Virus Therapy for IO-Resistant Tumors

Biomarker Focus: Microsatellite stable (MSS), KRAS mutations
Phase / Sites: Phase 1 / Single site (expansion)
Stage: Stage IV (refractory)
Recruitment Status: Expansion underway (Phase 1a complete)
What it’s studying: A bio-selected, receptor-targeted oncolytic RNA virus (IVX037) injected into tumors, combined with anti-PD-1 sintilimab
Findings: Disease control in patients with MSS and KRAS G12D CRC; early immune activation observed
Why it matters: One of the first intratumoral viral therapies showing benefit in MSS CRC: a population typically unresponsive to immunotherapy
Patient Tip: If your tumor is MSS and you’ve exhausted chemo options, ask your care team about clinical trials exploring novel immunotherapy combinations or virus-based therapies.
ClinicalTrials.gov: N/A

4. DYNAMIC-III Trial — ctDNA-Guided Escalation in Stage III CRC

Biomarker Focus: Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA)
Phase / Sites: Phase 2 / Australia
Stage: Stage III (resected)
Recruitment Status: Completed
What it’s studying: Use of post-surgical ctDNA to guide chemotherapy intensity
Findings: Escalation based on ctDNA positivity improved outcomes; negative ctDNA patients avoided unnecessary chemo
Why it matters: Further validates ctDNA as a tool for adjuvant therapy decisions
Patient Tip: If you’ve had surgery for stage III CRC, ask if ctDNA testing could help tailor your chemotherapy plan.
ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03803553

5. Tumor-Agnostic ADC Use in CRC – Real-World Data on KRAS G12C and HER2+ Subtypes
Biomarker Focus: KRAS G12C, HER2, and ADC-responsive profiles
Phase / Sites: Retrospective / Multiple centers
Stage: Stage IV (refractory)
Recruitment Status: Retrospective analysis of real-world patients (not an interventional trial)
What it’s studying: Outcomes among CRC patients treated with tumor-agnostic antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) in third-line or later settings
Findings: HER2+ and KRAS G12C patients experienced stable disease or prolonged progression-free survival with investigational ADCs
Why it matters: Highlights the transition of novel ADCs from trials to practice and underscores the importance of biomarker matching in refractory mCRC
Patient Tip: If you’ve already tried standard treatments, ask your provider about biomarker testing for targets like HER2 or KRAS G12C, which may open access to novel ADC-based strategies through expanded access or real-world use.
ClinicalTrials.gov: N/A

Published March 10, 2026

For more than 20 years Fight Colorectal Cancer has led the fight for screening access, research funding, and patient-centered care. We now have more than 70,000 advocates nationwide, and is the largest grassroots colorectal cancer advocacy network in the U.S.

Below is just a snapshot of our achievements over the past 20 years, highlighting our milestones in advocacy, research, and awareness that drive our progress forward.

(Click the images to view full screen)

Interested in supporting FightCRC’s advocacy work? Make a donation today.

Published February 24, 2026

  1. Can you share a bit about your background and what motivated you to apply for and accept this Post-Doc fellowship with Fight CRC and Tempus?

I earned my PhD in Biological Sciences at UC San Diego where my colleagues and I discovered a mechanism by which tumor cell ARID1A mutations can confer improved responsiveness to immunotherapy. This research provided a mechanistic explanation for prior reports that ARID1A mutations were enriched among patients who responded favorably to immunotherapy with certain types of cancer and provided a rationale for the development of novel combination therapies with the potential to increase immunotherapy efficacy.  

For my postdoctoral fellowship, I decided to focus on precision oncology research with the goal of developing novel biomarkers that can better guide therapeutic selection for cancer patients. Tempus has built one of, if not the largest, colorectal cancer (CRC) databases in the world combining molecular profiling with patient treatment and outcomes data, making Tempus a perfect setting for precision oncology research in CRC. I accepted this fellowship both for the opportunity to work with Tempus’ expansive CRC database and to join a world-class team of scientists brought together by Tempus and FightCRC with expertise in computational cancer biology, machine learning, and CRC clinical care. 

2. What is the primary focus of your research project during this fellowship? How has working with Tempus’ data and resources helped advance your work? 

My primary focus is investigating therapeutic resistance mechanisms in metastatic CRCs. For example, we are studying how metastatic microsatellite stable (MSS) CRCs develop resistance to chemotherapy plus anti-VEGF or anti-EGFR therapy. This research is important because it could enable us to develop biomarkers capable of predicting which patients are likely to develop resistance ahead of time and has the potential to inform the development of novel therapeutic approaches with increased efficacy.  

The most important benefits of working with Tempus’ database for my work are that it integrates multiple types of data such as molecular profiling and outcomes data, has a very large sample size of CRC patient samples, and is professionally maintained and well-organized. 

Progress and Findings 

3. What are some of the early findings or insights from your research so far? Any surprising discoveries or challenges you’ve encountered? 

For our project investigating how metastatic MSS CRC patients develop resistance to chemotherapy plus anti-EGFR therapy, we have observed that CRCs acquire both well studied and lesser known acquired resistance mutations after anti-EGFR therapy. The observation of lesser known acquired resistance mutations are interesting preliminary findings that we are continuing to investigate to understand if they may have utility in guiding clinical care.

4. How do you envision your research contributing to the broader field of colorectal cancer science?  

My hope is that our research will inspire new directions of research in the field on CRC therapy selection and therapeutic development. We are also starting to contribute to the CRC scientific community by establishing collaborations with other researchers in the field on topics such as molecular subtyping of CRC liver metastases and predicting sites of metastasis from early-stage CRCs.  

Data Impact

5. You mentioned that Tempus has built one of, if not, the largest CRC database in the world. What types of biomarkers and patient information can you analyze in this dataset?  

Tempus’ data incorporates molecular profiling which allows us to include important CRC biomarkers in our analyses such as MSI/MSS status, KRAS mutations, BRAF mutations, and kinase gene fusions (e.g., NTRK/ALK/FGFR). We can also classify CRC tumors based on their RNA expression profiles into consensus molecular subtypes (CMS) of CRC which have been associated with patient outcome. Tempus’ data also includes clinical characteristics such as tumor stage, tumor site, sidedness, age, sex, and ethnicity. Together, these data allow us to design highly detailed and clinically relevant research studies. 

6. Looking at a large dataset like Tempus’, what kinds of patterns or insights are emerging that might not be visible in smaller datasets? 

An advantage of working with large datasets such as Tempus’ is that you can discover rare patterns in the data and be confident that the patterns are real. In contrast, the same rare patterns in smaller datasets may be overlooked or treated as statistical noise during analysis due to limited sample size. For some of our future work on acquired resistance to specific chemotherapy regimens in metastatic MSS CRC, I hypothesize we may find rare patterns that are real and meaningful for patient care but would not be visible in smaller datasets.   

Connection to Patients & Community 

7. How does your research translate into potential impact for patients and caregivers? 

There are two main areas of potential impact for patients and their families. The first is better guidance at critical decision points in patient treatment. For example, if we can develop a machine learning model that predicts a low chance of benefit from a standard treatment, clinicians can adjust their treatment strategy to avenues that may hold more promise. The second is in the development of more effective treatment regimens. If our research can uncover why some CRCs are resistant to therapy this could lay the groundwork for developing more effective treatment regimens aimed at targeting the mechanisms CRCs use to become resistant to therapy.  

8. Have you had opportunities to engage with the Fight CRC patient community, and if so, how has that shaped your perspective?

Yes, I had the opportunity to meet with the FightCRC research advocates to share some of my research and hear their perspectives as survivors and caregivers. Learning more about the CRC patient community’s perspective has provided a deeper understanding of what clinical care looks and feels like from the patient point of view and serves as a source of motivation to continue making progress in the face of setbacks which are inevitable in scientific research. 

Partnership and Support 

9. How has the partnership between Fight CRC and Tempus helped make your research possible? 

The opportunity to study Tempus’ database of CRC patient samples has uniquely enabled me to pursue several high impact research questions and is only made possible by funding from FightCRC. This partnership also brings together leading scientists who help advise my research with expertise in computational cancer biology and machine learning at Tempus and FightCRC investigators with expertise in CRC clinical care. Of course, I’m biased but I think it’s a brilliant partnership to advance CRC research. 

10. What does this kind of sustained grant support mean for an early-career researcher like yourself? 

Sustained grant support means that we can tackle big questions that take time to adequately address. It also means that I can spend more time focused on research rather than continuously applying for funding which is very time consuming. 

Looking Forward

11. As this fellowship year wraps up, what are your hopes for the next stages of your research? 

My hopes are that we can continue making progress on metastatic CRC precision oncology research, present at conferences, and publish work that we believe is robust and impactful so that it can be read by the wider scientific community. I’m also excited about investigating some new ideas involving target discovery to inform the development of novel therapeutics for MSS CRCs and predicting sites of metastasis from early-stage primary CRC tumors, which could have important clinical utility. 

12. What advice would you give other young scientists considering a career in cancer research? 

My advice would be to try research out for yourself either by joining a research laboratory during college if this is available to you or by applying to summer research internships (e.g., SURFs funded by NIH or REUs funded by NSF). It’s important to determine whether you are passionate about research via first-hand experience because research is filled with failures and setbacks so the passion for what you are doing is important to overcome these setbacks and make progress. If you find that you enjoy research, continue acquiring more research experience because the expertise you gain is cumulative and there’s a lot to learn. Cancer research is not an easy line of work, but it is one of the most intellectually stimulating fields that anyone could pursue and is very fulfilling because you are working towards making a positive impact for patients. 

Published February 13, 2026

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Published February 12, 2026

When people hear about conferences like ASCO GI, they often think of charts, statistics, and clinical trial results. Those matter deeply. But for patients and caregivers, what matters just as much is whether the science reflects real lives and creates real opportunities for more time. 

This year, two Fight CRC Research Advocates attended ASCO GI to ensure lived experience was part of the conversation. One advocate came as a caregiver. One as a colorectal cancer survivor. Together, they listened not only for promising research, but for whether the voices of people living with cancer were being centered in how that research is designed, discussed, and delivered. 

Across sessions, one message came through clearly. Better care begins when patients are seen as whole people, not just outcomes. 

Patients Are People, Not Just Outcomes 

One of the most impactful sessions at ASCO GI was led by Sydney Towle, a young survivor of stage IV cholangiocarcinoma, who spoke candidly about navigating cancer as a young adult. 

She emphasized the importance of mental well being alongside physical side effects and spoke about collaboration between clinicians, patients, and caregivers. One statement captured the heart of her message: 

“Vulnerability is a superpower. By sharing, we make others and ourselves less alone.” 

That message resonated strongly from both caregiver and survivor perspectives. Cancer can be isolating at any age, but for young adults, it often collides with major life transitions like careers, relationships, and future plans. 

For caregivers, isolation can be just as real. Supporting a loved one through treatment often means quietly managing fear, responsibility, and decision making while trying to stay present and steady for someone else. During the pandemic, that isolation was even more pronounced. Many appointments happened virtually, and caregivers were not always able to be present for treatments, surgeries, or critical conversations. 

For survivors, being seen as a whole person also means knowing that emotional health, uncertainty, and life beyond scans matter just as much as what shows up on imaging. 

As Fight CRC Research Advocate and colorectal cancer survivor, Daad Abighanem, shared after attending ASCO GI: 

“Attending ASCO GI as a survivor was incredibly powerful. Hearing how tools like ctDNA could help detect disease earlier and guide treatment decisions made the science feel personal. For so long, treatment felt limited, but seeing progress in targeted therapies and personalized approaches was a reminder that it’s not just one option or nothing anymore. That progress means more informed choices, more time, and more hope for patients.” 

Survivorship is More Than Survival

Another key session focused on survivorship issues in early onset gastrointestinal cancers, led by Dr. Shruti Patel of Stanford. She outlined six areas patients consistently say are overlooked: fertility, sexual health, financial toxicity, employment, physical symptoms, and mental health. 

These are not secondary concerns. They shape daily life during and after cancer. 

For young onset patients, cancer does not pause life. It collides with it. Many are working, raising families, or trying to regain a sense of normalcy while managing long term effects of treatment. Care can feel fragmented and overwhelming, with appointments piling up and decisions needing to be made quickly. 

Caregivers often step in to fill gaps by researching late into the night, coordinating care, and advocating during visits. Survivors, meanwhile, are left navigating long term impacts that are not always addressed in follow up care plans. Survivorship is not just about being cancer free. It is about quality of life and the ability to plan for the future. 

Turning Science into More Options 

For survivors attending ASCO GI, one of the most encouraging themes was how research is moving toward more personalized care. Sessions on circulating tumor DNA, or ctDNA, highlighted how this technology may help clinicians detect minimal residual disease earlier and make more informed treatment decisions. 

CtDNA testing shows promise as a highly sensitive marker of tumor burden, especially when monitored over time. Earlier detection of minimal residual disease could lead to better disease control and improved outcomes. Ongoing studies like the CIRCULATE trial are exploring how ctDNA might be used to guide adjuvant chemotherapy decisions after surgery, with the goal of sparing some patients from unnecessary treatment while ensuring others receive the most effective therapy. 

While ctDNA testing is not yet standard of care in all settings, the discussions at ASCO GI reflected a future where treatment decisions are increasingly tailored to the individual patient rather than a one size fits all approach. 

That same shift toward personalization was reflected in data from the BREAKWATER trial, which explored first line targeted therapy options for patients with BRAF V600E mutant metastatic colorectal cancer. Results showed meaningful improvements in response rates, with responses that were both rapid and durable, and without unexpected side effects. 

For patients with historically fewer effective options, this progress matters. It reinforces the importance of early and comprehensive genomic testing so patients can access the therapies most likely to benefit them as early as possible. 

Community, Advocacy, and Why Voice Matters 

Beyond the data, ASCO GI was also a reminder of the strength of the advocacy community. Meeting fellow advocates who have turned personal pain into action underscored why patient and caregiver voices are essential in research spaces. 

Programs designed around stage of disease and caregiver needs can reduce isolation and help people feel supported. Clear communication and shared decision making help patients and caregivers feel more confident navigating complex choices. 

Throughout ASCO GI, research on exercise, nutrition, the gut microbiome, and early onset colorectal cancer reflected growing momentum toward more holistic care. Fight CRC’s presence helps ensure that this progress remains grounded in lived experience. 

When patient and caregiver voices are included early, research becomes more relevant and more compassionate. Most importantly, it helps ensure that no one feels invisible in their journey. 

Progress is not measured only in outcomes. It is measured in time, options, and quality of life. 

Community, Support, and Keeping Options Open 

ASCO GI also highlighted the importance of community and specialized care for young onset colorectal cancer patients. Programs designed around stage of disease and caregiver needs can reduce isolation and help patients feel more supported throughout their journey. 

These connections matter. When patients and caregivers are able to talk with others who understand their experience, it builds confidence and helps people feel less alone. 

The conference also explored complex treatment decisions, including liver transplantation, and the importance of carefully weighing benefits and risks. What stood out was the emphasis on continuing to explore all options so patients do not miss opportunities while waiting on one path forward. 

For patients and caregivers, having clear information and time to consider choices is critical. More options mean more agency and often more hope. 

Why Patient and Caregiver Voices Matter 

Throughout ASCO GI, research on exercise, nutrition, the gut microbiome, and early onset colorectal cancer reflected growing momentum toward more holistic care. Fight CRC’s presence helps ensure that this progress remains grounded in lived experience. 

When patient and caregiver voices are included early, research becomes more relevant and more compassionate. It leads to care that better reflects the realities of living with cancer. 

Most importantly, it helps ensure that no one feels invisible in their journey. 

Progress is not measured only in outcomes. It is measured in time, options, and quality of life. 

Published January 29, 2026

Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC), the nation’s leading colorectal cancer advocacy organization is proud to announce the expansion of its Catalyst State-by-State Advocacy Program to include four additional states: Georgia, Hawaii, Missouri, and Nevada. These states are part of Fight CRC’s ongoing commitment to support state-level advocacy efforts to increase access to life-saving colorectal cancer screening.

The Catalyst Program, a cornerstone of Fight CRC’s advocacy initiatives, supports state-level policy change through coalition building and grassroots advocacy. Molly McDonnell, Fight CRC’s Director of Advocacy, expressed her enthusiasm about the program’s expansion, saying, “Fight CRC is thrilled to add four new states to our Catalyst Program that represent diversity in patient populations, regions of the country, and political climates, all while having the same unwavering commitment to increasing access to colorectal cancer screening.”

Fight CRC provides funding and technical assistance that will lead to state-level legislative and policy changes. This year’s grants include:

  • Georgia: Ensuring all state-approved insurance plans fully cover colorectal cancer screening beginning at age 45 and remove out-of-pocket costs for colonoscopy after an abnormal non-invasive test.
  • Hawaii: Increasing screening in uninsured and underinsured populations by removing out- of- pocket costs for colonoscopy after an abnormal non-invasive screening test.
  • Missouri: Increasing access to colorectal cancer screening by allowing pharmacists to provide education, information, and when appropriate, non-invasive screening options to patients.
  • Nevada: Increasing colorectal cancer screening for low income, uninsured, and other medically underserved populations by ensuring Nevada Medicaid covers all available screening modalities.
This marks the fourth year of state-level grants through the Catalyst Program. Since launching the program in 2019, Fight CRC has supported advocacy efforts in 12 states and has had bills signed into law in eight states that will help ensure more people have access to colorectal cancer screening.

One-third of eligible adults are not up to date with CRC screening. Unlike many other cancers, colorectal cancer is preventable if caught early enough. The Catalyst Program strives to ensure that patients have access to the full continuum of colorectal cancer screening.

Funding for the program has been made possible through an unrestricted grant from Exact Sciences, a molecular diagnostics company with an initial focus on the early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer.

Published January 22, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New research from the American Cancer Society (ACS), published today in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), confirms a grim milestone: colorectal cancer is now the leading cause of cancer-related death in the United States.

While mortality rates have declined for four of the five most deadly cancers, deaths from colorectal cancer have continued to increase at a rate of 1.1% per year since 2005. At current rates, an estimated 55,230 people will die of colorectal cancer this year.

“We have been sounding the alarm about rising colorectal cancer in younger adults, and now JAMA shows the urgency is here, colorectal cancer is already the leading cause of cancer death under 50,” Anjee Davis, CEO of Fight Colorectal Cancer, said. “That is why we take this fight to Washington, bringing visibility on the National Mall and urging lawmakers to prioritize colorectal cancer through prevention, screening access, and timely follow up care.”

Colorectal cancer is also the only one of the top five leading causes of cancer death to show a steady increase in deaths among people under age 50.

As a society, these trends should make us all angry. Colorectal cancer is preventable. In 90% of cases, colorectal cancer can be prevented through screening and early intervention. Yet steady increases in mortality rates continue with each new data update.

“This new JAMA analysis confirms what patients and families have been living, colorectal cancer is already the leading cause of cancer death in people under 50, and the trend is still rising,” Davis said. “That is exactly why Fight CRC brings this to the National Mall through United in Blue, placing 27,400 blue flags to represent the young people projected to be diagnosed in 2030, and why we mobilize advocates and partners all March to push screening, prevention, and faster diagnosis into the national conversation.”

Fixing this problem is a function of policy, equitable access, and awareness. Action is needed across the agencies that address this issue every day—including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and the National Cancer Institute (NCI). A unified colorectal cancer prevention and early-detection roadmap, with clear deadlines the public can measure, is urgently needed.

From 1990 through 2023, 1,267,520 people died of cancer in the US before age 50 (53% female).

In the same period, the overall age standardized cancer death rate in this age group decreased by 44%, from 25.5 to 14.2 per 100,000.

About Fight Colorectal Cancer

Fight Colorectal Cancer (Fight CRC) is a leading patient-empowerment and advocacy organization in the United States, providing balanced and objective information on colon and rectal cancer research, treatment, and policy. We are relentless champions of hope, focused on funding promising, high-impact research endeavors while equipping advocates to influence legislation and policy for the collective good. Learn more at FightCRC.org.

Contact

Elizabeth Jordan
Fight Colorectal Cancer
703-548-1225
elizabeth@fightcrc.org

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