Nova Scotia Health's Cancer Care Program provides information for patients who have been diagnosed with colorectal cancer and their families.
You can access most of the resources listed below by clicking on the link provided.
Peer Support
The Canadian Cancer Society offers a free, confidential, telephone-based Peer Support program.
This program connects people living with colorectal cancer with a colorectal cancer survivor who is a trained volunteer. The volunteer listens, offers encouragement and shares ideas for coping – all from their unique perspective as someone who’s been there.
Family members can also talk with volunteers who have cared for a person with colorectal cancer.
To register:
Call 1-888-939-3333 or email info@cis.cancer.ca.
For more information:
Visit the Canadian Cancer Society's website and talk to someone who's been there.
Patient Education Resources
A Cancer Patient Navigator May Help
Cancer Patient Navigators are oncology nurses who work with you and your family and your cancer care team throughout your treatment and follow up care. This pamphlet explains how a cancer patient navigator can help and how to contact a Cancer Patient Navigator.
Could Colorectal Cancer in My Family Be Hereditary?
Some colorectal cancer is hereditary (passed down in families). This pamphlet lists the signs of hereditary colorectal cancer, how to be tested, and the conditions for testing if colorectal cancer is hereditary.
Nutrition Guidelines After Bowel Surgery
This pamphlet provides guidelines for the first 4 weeks (1 month) after bowel surgery. They will help with your healing, comfort, and bowel function. Foods that are best tolerated and foods to avoid are listed.
Low Anterior Resection Syndrome
Low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) is a change in bowel habits that may happen after surgery for rectal cancer. This pamphlet details the causes, symptoms, and possible treatments of LARS.
Living Beyond Cancer: Follow up Care for Colon Cancer Patients
This pamphlet describes the recommended follow-up care for colon cancer survivors. What to expect and a lists of available supports and resources is included.
Living Beyond Cancer: Follow up Care for Rectal Cancer Patients
This pamphlet describes the recommended follow-up care for survivors of rectal cancer. Topics include what to expect next and available supports and resources.