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If colorectal cancer spreads
Cancer cells can spread from the colon or rectum to other parts of the body. This spread is called metastasis.
Understanding how a type of cancer usually grows and spreads helps your healthcare team plan your treatment and future care. If colorectal cancer spreads, it can spread to the following:
- nearby lymph nodes (the most common place where colorectal cancer spreads)
- nearby tissues in the abdomen or pelvis
- peritoneum
- distant lymph nodes
- kidneys
- adrenal glands
- liver
- lung
- bone
- brain
peritoneum
The membrane that lines the walls of the abdomen and pelvis (parietal peritoneum), and covers and supports most of the abdominal organs (visceral peritoneum).
Funding world-class research

Cancer affects all Canadians but together we can reduce the burden by investing in research and prevention efforts. Learn about the impact of our funded research.