How to Learn About the Stages of Colon Cancer

Cancer that develops in the lining of the colon often starts with a simple benign polyp that turns cancerous. Learn about the stages of colon cancer, sometimes referred to as colorectal cancer, to help you determine the best course of treatment for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Oncologist specializing in colon cancer

Learn About the TNM Stages of Colon Cancer

1. Remember that the TNM system has three parts that measure the three aspects of colon cancer.

2. T stands for tumor; this part of TNM measures the size and severity of the tumor. A score of T0 means the tumor has yet to affect the local tissues, while a score of T4 means the tumor has invaded nearby organs and is most likely inoperable.

3. N stands for node; this part of TNM measures the number of nodes affected by the colon cancer. A score of N0 means the cancer has not affected any lymph nodes, while a score of N4 means a large number of lymph nodes have been affected.

4. M stands for metastasis; this part of TNM classifies the extent to which the colon cancer has spread to the tissues of other organs. M0 means there is no evidence of metastasis, while M1 means evidence of metastasis is present.

5. Read more about the TNM stages of colon cancer at the Cancer Guide Web site (see Resources below). This guide also reviews the Roman numeral and letter cancer grading systems.

Address Your Colon Cancer Situation

6. Get screened early. It is recommended that everyone over age 50 have a colonoscopy every three to five years; however, if you are in a high-risk group, early screening may be necessary. If you have a family history of cancer or polyps, get tested early. Even though colon cancer is treatable and even curable if it is localized, over 60 percent of cases are diagnosed at a late stage.

7. Discuss with your doctor what stage your cancer has attained. As you learn about the stages, you will be able to make better decisions about your treatment. Usually, chemotherapy is recommended for the latter stages only.

8. Change your eating habits. No matter what stage your colon cancer may have reached, lifestyle changes must be made to prevent it from becoming worse. Even in the early stages, diet and exercise must be adjusted. It is recommended you eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.

9. Prepare for more tests to determine which stage your cancer has reached. Your doctor will conduct tests to discover whether the cancer has spread. CT scans and ultrasounds can determine which organs the cancer has affected.

Tips & Warnings

• Speak to your doctor about alternative treatments medical professionals are currently testing to treat later stages of colon cancer. Some of these may reduce tumor size or stop the cancer from spreading.
• Your rights are protected at work, but you must discuss with your employer how much beyond the state and federal laws the company is willing to support you. It is up to you to share your diagnosis; you may be offered more leeway if you do.
• When cancer is in the later stages, it often becomes hard to cope with daily life. Suddenly everything seems to be about the cancer. Consider joining a support group so you can be around others going through the same emotional turmoil as you.

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