CRC Research Update — March 18, 2026
Today's colorectal cancer research highlights
The CRC Digest
Curated CRC research — accessible, accurate, actionable
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
IMPORTANT: The CRC Digest curates and summarizes publicly available research for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this newsletter constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Content is generated with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team. We are not medical professionals. Individual results, treatments, and outcomes vary.
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Phase I trial tests HER2-targeted antibody-drug conjugate in gastric and colorectal cancers
Trastuzumab rezetecan showed activity in HER2-expressing advanced gastric/gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinoma and colorectal cancer in a multicenter Phase I trial. This early-stage study evaluated safety and dosing in patients with HER2-positive tumors. (Journal of Clinical Oncology)
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Literature review examines exercise impact on treatment tolerability in metastatic CRC
Researchers reviewed evidence on whether exercise can help patients with metastatic colorectal cancer better tolerate systemic treatments, noting that over 40% experience toxicity-induced treatment modifications in the first three months. (Journal of Cancer Survivorship)
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Meta-analysis evaluates circulating tumor DNA for predicting recurrence in stage III CRC
A systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the prognostic value of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) testing for predicting recurrence risk in patients with stage III colorectal cancer after treatment. (Clinical Colorectal Cancer)
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Study quantifies patient preferences for watch-and-wait versus surgery in rectal cancer
The PrefCoRe discrete choice experiment measured how patients with locally advanced rectal cancer who achieved complete response weigh the trade-offs between watch-and-wait monitoring and surgical removal of the tumor. (European Journal of Cancer)
These studies continue building evidence on treatment options, monitoring strategies, and supportive care approaches for colorectal cancer patients.
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The CRC Digest provides research summaries for informational and educational purposes only. This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions about your care.
Content is curated with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team.