Rectal Cancer Prognosis

A Summary of Rectal Cancer Prognosis

Rectal cancer patients and their loved ones face many unknowns. Some people find it easier to cope with the disease when they know the statistics. Other people find statistical information confusing and frightening, and they think it is too impersonal to be of use to them. The doctor who is most familiar with a patient's situation is in the best position to discuss the rectal cancer prognosis and to explain what the statistics may mean for that person. At the same time, it is important to understand that even the doctor cannot know exactly what to expect. In fact, a person's prognosis may change if the cancer progresses, or if treatment is successful.

 

Seeking information about the rectal cancer prognosis is a personal decision. It is up to each patient to decide how much information he or she wants and how to deal with it.