Colorectal Cancer Treatment Delay Thresholds and Metastasis Risk

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Timely treatment initiation is critical in managing nonmetastatic colorectal cancer to prevent progression to metastasis.
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Delays in treatment can lead to complex care, increased risk of toxic effects, and higher healthcare costs.
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This study evaluates the association between time-to-treatment initiation and 3-year metastasis risk in nonmetastatic colorectal cancer patients.
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The cohort included patients aged 40 or older diagnosed with nonmetastatic colorectal cancer undergoing curative-intent surgery.
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Treatment pathways were classified into four categories based on the sequence of surgery and therapy received.

Jama Network Open

by Chi M. Nguyen, Todd C. Skaar, Thomas F. Imperiale, Travis S. Johnson, Patrick O. Monahan, Anita A. Turk, Mai P. Nguyen
July 14, 2026

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