Recurrent Cancer
Colorectal cancer that is caught in its early stages may never come back, or it may recur. If the cancer doesn't recur within 5 years, it's considered cured. Stage I, II, and III cancers are considered potentially curable. In most cases, stage IV cancer is not curable.

The Need for Surveillance
Cancer treatment may not kill all the cancer cells in the body. Over time, these cells may start to grow again, at the original site (locally) or at a different location in the body. Regular check-ups are important for detecting and diagnosing recurrent colorectal cancer. This can be done through physical exams and a number of tests, including blood tests, chest X-rays, bone scans, ultrasound, and CT, PET, PET/CT, or MRI scans.

Diagnosis is usually confirmed with a biopsy. Polyps or tissue samples from any areas that appear abnormal will be examined under a microscope by a pathologist to determine if cancerous cells are present.

Follow-Up Guidelines
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network has issued the following guidelines for follow-up surveillance: physical exam (including digital rectal exam) every 3 months for 2 years, then every 6 months for 3 years; CEA level (if elevated preoperatively) checked every 3 months for 2 years, then every 6 months for 3 years; and colonoscopy in 1 year, with a repeat in 1 year if abnormal, or every 2-3 years if no polyps are found. The decision to use chest X-ray or CT scan for surveillance varies from physician to physician and is more likely used in higher-risk cases.

Recurrence and Lifestyle
Some studies have shown that lifestyle can have an effect on whether or not colorectal cancer recurs. Long-term smokers, for example, have been shown to be 22% more likely to have their cancer return. And patients who eat a typical "Western" diet, high in red meat, fatty products, refined grains, and refined sugars, are more likely to have recurrent colorectal cancer.

On the plus side, one study has shown that statins, a type of lipid-lowering drug, decrease the risk of having recurrent stage I, II, or III colon cancer. In addition, physical activity (exercise) may be protective against colorectal cancer.

More on this topic

Colorectal Cancer Screening (VIDEO)
Colorectal Cancer
Colon Anatomy & Function
What Is Colorectal Cancer
Tumor Growth
Cancer Staging
Signs & Symptoms
Screening & Diagnosis
A Less Invasive Look
Treating Colorectal Cancer
Detecting Cancer Recurrence
Preventing Cancer

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Breast Cancer, Cancer Introduction, Colorectal Cancer, Prostate Cancer