Colon Cancer Stages

Colon cancer occurs when cancer is present in the area of the large intestine, also known as the colon which is the lower section of the digestive system. There are five colon cancer stages ranging from 0-4 based on the amount of damage that is present. The majority of occurrences of colon cancer begin as groups of small benign or noncancerous cells. These cells are often referred to as adenomatous polyps and over a period of time may become cancerous in nature. This results in various forms of colon cancer.

Colon Cancer – Stage 0

Stage 0 is the earliest stage of the various colon cancer stages. This stage of colon cancer is often referred to as carcinoma in situ. The term carcinoma is used in reference to a cancer that develops in epithelial tissues and in situ indicates the original place or position in which the cancer occurs. Colon cancer is classified at stage 0 when it has not progressed from the area in which it began. This means that at stage 0 colon cancer is still in the earliest stages of development and confined to the furthest inner linings of the colon.

Colon Cancer – Stage 1

Stage 1 colon cancer is the second step in the progression of colon cancer stages. This stage indicates that the cancer has spread past the inner lining of the colon into the middle layers of this organ. This stage of colon cancer is still relatively mild and is often treated with surgical resection. This means that the section affected by the cancer is removed and the healthy sections are rejoined creating a colon that is once again cancer free.

Colon Cancer – Stage 2

This level of the colon cancer stages is comprised of two specific types of tumors. Tumors which are less advanced are referred to as stage 2A tumors and those which are more advanced are classified as stage 2B tumors.

Colon Cancer – Stage 3

This stage of colon cancer is also subdivided into different levels based on the progression of severity of the tumors which are present. This severity is determined in order from least advanced being stage 3A to most advanced or stage 3C with the middle classification being 3B. This stage of colon cancer usually means that the cancer has spread beyond the colon and is now present in other nearby organs.

Colon Cancer – Stage 4

Stage 4 is the final of the colon cancer stages. This stage of colon cancer is not only the final stage of this disease but is also the most advanced. Because this is the most advanced stage of colon cancer it is also the most difficult to treat. Stage 4 colon cancer almost always means that the cancer has spread beyond the confinement of the colon to infect one or more other organs outside of the colon.

Treatment of Colon Cancer

The earlier colon cancer is detected, the more treatable the condition is. For this reason it is essential that colon cancer be diagnosed as early as possible for treatment to be the most effective.