Outlook

The outlook for recovery from rectal cancer is unique for each individual. Many factors are involved when considering the chance of survival after rectal cancer treatment.

Long-term survival generally depends upon the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis and treatment.

According to stage, the following approximations of the likelihood of survival 5 years after treatment are as follows:

• Stage I: The probability of being alive in 5 years is approximately 70-80%.
  
  
• Stage II: The probability of being alive in 5 years is approximately 50-60%.
  
  
• Stage III: The probability of being alive in 5 years is approximately 30-40%.
  
  
• Stage IV: The probability of being alive in 5 years is less than 10%.