Stage 4 Colon Cancer

Stage 4 colon cancer is the most advanced form of colon cancer.

It refers to colon cancer that has spread through the body, typically into the lungs, liver and lymph nodes.

As the most advanced form of colon cancer, it is also the most difficult to treat.

Hearing a diagnosis of colon cancer stage 4, can be a scary and life changing experience.

Although the cancer is more advanced and therefore has the smallest survival rate, there is hope, and treatment options which may save your life.

Causes of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer occurs when growths occur on the lining of the colon. Often these growths, known as polyps, are benign but they may become cancerous and lead to colon cancer.

Colon cancer is most commonly diagnosed in those over age 50, though less frequently younger adults are also diagnosed. Genetics may also be responsible for colon cancer and lead to colon cancer stage 4.

Two forms of colon cancer have a genetic link; Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC) and Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). Both may be detected through genetic testing.

Though genetically linked colon cancers make up only a small percentage of colon cancer rates, heredity does increase the risk of getting colon cancer. The risk increases if more than one immediate family member has suffered from the disease.

Lifestyle factors including obesity, smoking, and heavy drinking of alcohol are associated with an increased risk of getting colon cancer including fourth stage cancers.

Having diabetes, leading an sedentary lifestyle, and consuming diets high in fat and low in fiber are also believed to play a role in colon cancer risks. Among race and gender, African-Americans have a greater risk of developing the disease and men are more likely to be diagnosed than women.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer tends to present few symptoms in its early stages and when it does present, they are often mistaken for other conditions. Symptoms prevalent in stage 4 colon cancer and earlier stages include;

Bowel Movement Changes

- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Urgency to empty the bowels
- Feeling of fullness or pressure persisting after emptying the bowels
- Long thin stools
- Bloody stools

Rectal Problems

- Bleeding
- Cramping

Stomach Problems

- Pain
- Bloating
- Lack of appetite
- Weight loss
- Unexplainable fatigue

In colon cancer stage 4, pelvic pain may also occur.

Treatments for Colon Cancer

After diagnosis of stage 4 colon cancer, treatment will begin immediately and will most likely include surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy. At the location of the cancerous tumor, an operation is performed to remove the infected parts of the colon followed by rejoining the remainder of the colon.

Chemotherapy or radiation may be done depending on where the cancer has spread. In this stage, chemotherapy drugs shrink tumors and help manage pain. 5-Fluorouracil is the most popular chemotherapy drug for colon cancer stage 4 and is also available in pill form.

Colon Cancer Statistics

Individuals with stage 4 colon cancer have about an 8% survival rate after 5 years, though some estimates put this number at 15%. Although this may seem grim, aggressively treating the cancer may help improve quality of life and survival rates.

Early detection may also help prevent colon cancer stage 4 from developing.

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