To determine how advanced the Colorectal Cancer is there are two different systems. First, we will discuss the staging system for Colon Cancer, which has 4 levels. Stage I clinically indicates that there is cancer and has moved through the superficial mucosa of the colon and/or rectum but has not spread beyond the colon wall or rectum. The Stage II clinically means that the cancer has moved through the wall of the colon and/or rectum but there is no lymphatic spread yet. Stage III clinically means the cancer has now invaded lymphatics and is in the lymph nodes, but has not spread distantly yet. Finally, Stage IV of Colon Cancer diagnosis means that the cancer has now spread to distant sites; which is known as metastatic disease. Metastatic spread means the cancer has now spread to other organs. Typical organs which are affected by metastatic colon cancer include the Liver and Lungs.

Recommended Read:  Treatment Options for Colorectal Cancer

For Rectal Cancer, there are actually five stages. There is a Stage 0 which indicates that there are cancerous cells only affecting the superficial rectal lining, and may even be a within the polyp itself. Stage I indicates that the tumor or cancerous cells are now penetrating the rectal mucosa and may even penetrate the rectal wall. Stage II Rectal Cancer means that the tumor has now penetrated the rectal wall and is invading adjacent tissues. Stage III indicates that lymph nodes next to the rectum are involved; other structures outside the rectal wall can also be invaded with cancer in the stage III. Finally, Stage IV Rectal Cancer, indicates that there is distant spread; otherwise known as metastatic disease. In this stage, other lymph nodes and organs are invaded with cancer that originated from the Rectum.

Signs and Symptoms

Colorectal cancer (cancer of the colon or rectum) can develop quietly, sometimes without obvious signs in the early stages. As it progresses, symptoms may include persistent changes in bowel habits—such as diarrhea, constipation, or stools that are narrower than usual. Blood in the stool, which may appear bright red or dark, or rectal bleeding, is another warning sign. Many people experience ongoing abdominal discomfort, cramping, bloating, or a feeling of fullness, along with a sense that the bowel doesn’t completely empty after a movement. Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, weakness, and anemia (low red blood cell count) may also occur. Because these symptoms can overlap with common digestive issues, paying attention to their duration and persistence is crucial. Regular screenings, especially after age 45 or earlier if there is a family history, play a key role in catching colorectal cancer early when treatment is most effective.