Verywell Health's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Routine exercise may improve colon cancer survival, with some studies reporting anywhere from a 40% to 70% reduction in post-treatment mortality compared to people who engage in no exercise. For example, if the 5-year relative survival rate for a specific stage of colon or rectal cancer is 80%, it means that people who have that cancer are, on average, about 80% as likely as people who dont have that cancer to live for at least 5 years after being diagnosed. Nosher, J., Ahmed, I., Patel, A. et al. 8. Mayo Clinic Minute: What's the right colorectal cancer screening option for you? This is more likely with later-stage cancers, such as stage 4. Primary colorectal melanoma accounts for around 1% of all colorectal cancers and has by far the worst outcomes, with an overall five-year survival rate of just 20%.. Cigarette smoke not only induces chronic inflammation but also causes oxidative damage to DNA. During a colonoscopy, the doctor inserts a colonoscope into your rectum to check for abnormalities in your entire colon. It is important to discuss all of the options with a doctor and to understand the goal of each treatment. What are the potential side effects of each treatment? Accessed Jan. 30, 2019. There are some cases in which surgery may still be a good option, though. Learn more about FIT tests and the best tests to order online here. At the American Cancer Society, we have a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Will any of the treatments cure my colon cancer? Your gift will help support our mission to end cancer and make a difference in the lives of our patients. According to SEER estimates for 2020, the five-year survival rate for colorectal cancer in the United States breaks down as follows: 1 Survival Rate by Cancer Type The majority of colon cancers involve a type of cancer known as adenocarcinoma, which originates in glands and glandular tissues. That's why getting regular recommended screeningsusually a colonoscopyis so important. If you are ready to make an appointment, select a button on the right. Mayo Clinic Q and A: Treating colon cancer. The researchers further concluded that PS plays a more central role in survival times than either age or co-occurring medical conditions. Prognosis refers to the possible course of the disease and how much time you have. Instead, it groups cancers into localized, regional, and distant stages: These numbers are based on people diagnosed with cancers of the colon between 2012 and 2018. Survival rates are usually given in percentages. You can help reduce your risk of cancer by making healthy choices like eating right, staying active and not smoking. Colon cancer treatment (PDQ) Health Professional Version. Age: <50 50-59 60-69 70-79 80+. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. 2015;8(4):e3439. One study on signet ring cell carcinoma found that it had a much greater survival rate in people who saw it originate in the stomach, compared to those who had it start in other areas of the body, like the pancreas or gallbladder. National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program. Doctors generally recommend that people with an average risk of colon cancer begin screening around age 45. This approach provides a chance to be free of cancer over the long term.