Lexington, Massachusetts — Immuno-oncology company Agenus Inc. published the findings in their national Colorectal Cancer inFocus survey. The survey focused on highlighting unmet needs of patients in colorectal cancer care.
According to the Center for Disease Control colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Colorectal cancer puts a large burden on patients, their families, and the healthcare system. Agenus’s survey was conducted online in the United States from October-December 2024, both patients and healthcare providers took part in the survey.
The survey found that early-onset colorectal cancer is on the rise, more than 82% of the patients surveyed were adults under the age of 50.
The survey also revealed that the vast majority of healthcare providers surveyed, around 93%, believe treatment options for colorectal cancer are insufficient, chemotherapy remains the main treatment despite its harsh side effects. This comes as a majority patients have expressed interest in alternatives to chemotherapy. As patients seek alternatives to chemotherapy there has been a growing interest in Immunotherapies, 37% of healthcare providers surveyed said that Immunotherapies are the most promising treatment for colorectal cancer. Patients seem to be less interested in chemotherapy due to its harsh side effects which also shows that patients are prioritizing quality of life along with extending life. Side effects of chemotherapy were often reported by respondents to be the most difficult aspect of their cancer journey.
Commenting on the findings of the study Cheif Medical Officer of Agenus, Steven O’Day, MD, said “This survey underscores the urgent need for transformative solutions in colorectal cancer treatment. Patients and healthcare providers alike are calling for more effective options that not only extend survival but also preserve quality of life. At Agenus, we are committed to advancing next-generation immuno-oncology therapies that have the potential to address these unmet needs and bring meaningful progress to the CRC community.”
Agenus collaborated with the Colorectal Cancer Alliance and Fight Colorectal Cancer on this survey. Michael Sapienza, CEO of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance said, “Patients facing colorectal cancer deserve treatment options that prioritize both survival and quality of life, The survey findings highlight a clear need for new therapies that are targeted and minimize harsh side effects. We’re proud to partner on this effort to amplify patient voices and advocate for innovative solutions that can transform care.” With Fight Colorectal Cancer CEO, Anjee Davis Adding, “This survey reinforces what patients have long been telling us—current colorectal cancer treatments are not enough, too many are facing limited options, debilitating side effects, and a lack of awareness about emerging therapies. It is critical that we prioritize patient-centered innovation that not only extends survival but also improves quality of life.”
You can access the results form the survey here.
