Stage 3 Colon Cancer

Stage 3 Colon cancer is a common form of cancer that strikes adults in their fifties and beyond.

Causes of Colon Cancer

Some cases of colon cancer occur without a clear cause.

In other people, genetics are thought to play a role.

People with a family history of the disease are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Other factors that contribute to a higher risk of colon cancer include;

- Being over the age of 50
- Smoking
- Obesity
- Alcohol abuse
- Diabetes
- Lack of exercise
- Eating a high fat diet

Some experts believe an unhealthy lifestyle is a significant factor in developing colon cancer.

Early Diagnosis for Colon Cancer

As with many types of cancer, if diagnosed early, it is easily treatable. Left untreated, colon cancer spreads throughout the colon and into other parts of the body.

Stage 3 is diagnosed when the cancer has invaded the deep layers of the colon and spread to the nearby lymph nodes and organs. In colon cancer stage 3, metastasis is local; distant organs like the liver are not yet involved.

Colon Cancer Stage 3A, 3B, and 3C

Furthermore, colon cancer stage 3 is divided into stages called; stage 3A, 3B, and 3C.

- In stage 3A colon cancer, up to three lymph nodes are affected.

- In stage 3B, the cancer has spread to nearby tissues and organs, and at least three lymph nodes.

- In stage 3C, the cancer has spread to nearby organs and at least four or more lymph nodes.

Stage 3 Colon Cancer Treatment

Treatment for stage 3 involves the use of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or a combination of the three. Surgery removes the cancerous growth and surrounding healthy tissue.

The diseased portion of the colon is removed and the healthy parts are joined together. This may result in a permanent colostomy if a large part of the colon is taken. If the tumor is large, radiation may be given before surgery in order to shrink the tumor.

Doctors generally recommend third stage patients receive chemotherapy following surgery to kill cancer cells that have spread beyond the colon. The chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil is taken for up to eight months after surgery and has been linked with an increased rate of cure.

There is a chance the cancer may reoccur. The patient is considered to be cured when they are free of cancer for five years, since colon cancer rarely recurs after five years. Stage 3 colon cancer is considered a curable cancer given the proper treatment.

Stage 3 Survival Rates

Typically, patients in stage 3 who receive chemotherapy have a 40% to 60% five year survival rate.

People with stage 3A have a five year survival rate of 83%, 64% at stage 3B, and 44% at stage 3C.

Many factors influence the survival of colon cancer. Stage 3 patients may increase their odds by following a healthy diet and lifestyle after treatment.

Colon Cancer Early Examination

People in high risk groups and those with unusual bowel symptoms should undergo examinations for colon cancer. Colon cancer that is detected early is usually treatable by surgically removing the tumor(s).

In early cancers, this can be done during a diagnostic colonoscopy. By the time stage 3 colon cancer develops, the cancer has invaded the colon and begun to spread. This makes treatment more difficult, but the odds are still good for a favorable recovery.

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