Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major worldwide health problem owing to its high prevalence and mortality rates. If diagnosed early CRC is also one of the most curable types of cancer with cure rates as high as 90%. Evidence shows that the majority of CRCs could be prevented by applying existing knowledge of cancer prevention and by increasing the use of established screening tests.

Advances in the diagnosis and treatment of CRC have had a major impact on the management of this malignancy. Developments in screening, prevention, biomarker and genomic analysis, stem-cell research, personalized therapies, and chemotherapy have improved detection and mortality statistics. 

The personalized care plan is the cornerstone of the successful treatment of cancers in Germany.  Each patient receives an individualized treatment plan depending on their tumour type and its stage of progression. In this procedure, the identification of tumour histology and staging of the tumour is of fundamental importance for the successful planning of treatment options.  This is a key factor in the German Health Advisors’ daily work. 

For each patient with a tumour, we attempt to initially fulfill these two aspects in collaboration with our patients and local colleagues.  We then discuss the case with the specialists, or, at the multidisciplinary tumour boards at our partner clinics in Germany. If any problems arise, we communicate this to our patients and try to find solutions. This usually happens when we get incorrect or incomplete pathology or radiology reports (discussed in details below).