Colon & Rectal Cancer

Colon and rectal (colorectal) cancer is the 3rd most common cancer among men and women.

• The 5-year survival rate is 90% if caught before the cancer spreads.It decreases to 65% if cancer spreads to the lymph nodes.If it spreads to the liver or lungs, the survival rate is only 8%.
• It is estimated that about $8.4 billion is spent in the United States each year on treatment of colorectal cancer.

HOW ARE COLON AND RECTAL CANCER TREATED?

Surgery is the primary treatment for both colon and rectal cancer. Most often, the diseased section is cut out and the intestine is reconnected. Sometimes there is a temporary colostomy.It is unusual for a person with colon cancer to have a permanent colostomy, given today’s treatment options.A person with rectal cancer may require a permanent colostomy if major surgery has been done.

Chemotherapy and radiation may also be used.Sometimes they are used to provide “palliative” treatment—this probably won’t cure the client but may slow or halt the growth of any tumors that can’t be surgically removed.

What are some common complications?

• As with most cancers, clients with colorectal cancer may experience pain, weight loss, and fatigue.
• Watch for and report gastrointestinal symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, and loss of appetite). These symptoms can often be relieved with medication.
• Monitor for a decline in mobility. Report any changes in mobility status right away.
• Depression and anxiety are common, especially for clients who are coping with colostomies.
• It’s also common for clients to become isolated from normal support networks in reaction to this particular type of cancer. 

While changes in bowel function are important to report for all clients, it is especially important to be aware of any changes for those who have colorectal cancer.

Symptoms of concern are:

• Bloody or tarry stools.
• Diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool that lasts more than a few days.
• Feeling the urge to have a bowel movement that is not relieved by doing so.
• Cramping and abdominal pain.
• Weakness and fatigue.
• Jaundice or yellowing of the skin or eyes.
• Decreased appetite.