What you have to prove
Meet listing via: (1) adenocarcinoma that is inoperable, unresectable, recurrent, or with metastases beyond the regional lymph nodes; OR (2) squamous cell carcinoma of the anus recurrent after surgery.
Medical evidence SSA expects
Pathology, colonoscopy reports, CEA levels, imaging (CT, PET), and treatment records.
Common misconceptions
Early-stage colon cancer resected with curative intent + adjuvant chemo often doesn't meet the listing. Stage IV or recurrent disease typically does.
Didn't meet the listing? You can still qualify via a Medical-Vocational
Allowance — SSA's determination that your residual functional capacity, combined with
your age, education, and work history, leaves no jobs you can do. See our
appeals guide for what to do after an initial denial.