Follow-up care is recommended for colorectal cancer patients to ensure that recurrent or metastatic disease is detected as soon as possible. Patients should undergo regular physical examinations, fecal occult blood tests, colonoscopies, CT scans, and chest x-rays.
Prognosis
Prognosis depends on the stage of the disease and the overall health of the patient. Overall, colorectal cancer patients have a 5-year survival rate of about 61%. The 5-year survival rate is about 92% when the disease is treated before it has spread (metastasized); 64% when the cancer has spread to nearby organs or lymph nodes; and 7% when it has spread to other parts of the body (e.g., liver, lungs).
Prevention
Early detection and removal of intestinal polyps may help prevent colorectal cancer. Studies are being conducted to determine if reducing risk factors (e.g., smoking, daily alcohol consumption), eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet, and increasing physical activity can help prevent the disease.
Physician-developed and -monitored.
Original Date of Publication: 15 Aug 1999
Reviewed by: Toomas Sorra, M.D., F.A.C.G.
Last Reviewed: 26 May 2008
Colon Cancer (Colorectal Cancer), Follow-Up, Prognosis, Prevention reprinted with permission from oncologychannel.com
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