The Survival of Colon and Rectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and the second most common cancer in women. In 2020, there were more than 1.9 million new cases of colorectal cancer. With increasing life expectancy, we are seeing more elderly patients. However, the number of young patients under 50 is also increasing. Survival rates have improved by optimising surgical procedures such as total mesorectal excision (TME) and complete mesocolic excision (CME) and multidisciplinary approaches, especially for advanced carcinomas. In recent decades, standardisation of treatment has been an important tool for improving survival rates. Today, with increasing therapeutic options and the results of prognostic factor research, the possibilities to individualise therapy are increasing. Both under- and overtreatment should be avoided. Quality management is essential to improve outcomes. However, not only is the length of survival time important, but also the patient’s quality of life.