Colon Cancer Life Expectancy

Colon cancer is characterized by the cancerous growth in the colon, appendix and the rectum. The basic challenge is to precisely detect the early signs of the cancer, as it has been observed that they get neglected due to the similarity they have with certain other diseases and conditions. The number of people getting diagnosed with colon cancer has increased in the past few years. Though the life expectancy is less at the final stages of the cancer, it is possible to treat this ailment effectively, if it is detected at the right time due to the advancement in the medical science and technology.

The causes for the development of colon cancer in a person can be many. Many experienced health care professionals have linked the occurrence of colon cancer to genetic and hereditary reasons. Those suffering from the Crohn's disease and having the addiction of smoking are also considered to be more prone to it. Improper diet and ulcerative colitis are also responsible for the occurrence of colon cancer.

Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Diarrhea, pain in the stomach, jaundice, anemia, fatigue are considered to be the main indicators of colon cancer. The person might experience problems in bowel movements and also frequent nausea and vomiting. Uneasiness and discomfort in the region where the tumor is located, is also a warning sign for this type of cancer. Rectal bleeding is also considered to be an important symptom.

General weakness and tiredness is also experienced by people suffering from colon cancer. If you observe sudden loss in your weight, even though you have not been dieting or exercising with a goal to reduce weight, you should report this condition to your doctor.

Life Expectancy for People with Colon Cancer

Many people seem to be desperate to know the answer to the question - what is the life expectancy of someone with colon cancer? Here is an explanation of the same. As per the view of medical researchers, the chances of surviving for five years is more than ninety percent for the people who are in the first stage. In the first stage, the cancerous cells move to the central layers of the colon. Even those who have been treated have a survival rate of in excess of more than seventy three percent. In the second stage, the cancerous cells move to the various parts of the body. The life expectancy is five years for more than forty five percent of the cases in the third stage of this cancer. The survival rate for the people in the fourth stage is less than that for the people in the other stages - it can be around eight percent.

The life expectancy of a person suffering from colon cancer is bound to be different for different people, based on different situations and circumstances.