Quality of Life for People With Metastatic Colorectal Cancer

Metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) is a type of cancer that has spread from the colon or rectum to other parts of the body. This is an advanced stage of cancer. Unfortunately, for many people with mCRC, the disease is incurable.¹

From physical comfort to emotional well-being, mCRC and its treatments affect many areas of life. The condition can impact your overall quality of life in lots of ways.¹

Colon cancer prognosis and survival rates

When colorectal cancer spreads to other organs – for example, the liver, lungs, or lymph nodes – the outlook can vary. According to the most recent data from the American Cancer Society, the 5-year relative survival rate for people with mCRC is about 13 to 18 percent. This means that people with mCRC are 13 to 18 percent as likely as those without mCRC to live for 5 years after their diagnosis.²

But every person is different, and many factors affect survival rates. These factors include:^1,2

• The location and size of the tumor(s)
• How well the cancer responds to treatment
• Your age and overall health
• Whether you have genetic mutations, such as BRAF V600E
• Whether you have right or left-sided CRC

The good news is that mCRC treatments are constantly improving. New and novel therapies are emerging, which are helping to improve colon cancer survival rates.^1,2

How mCRC affects quality of life

Living with mCRC can impact your quality of life in many ways. Here are some of the main aspects of living with colon cancer that can affect quality of life:^3,4

• Whether an ostomy is needed
• Treatment side effects
• Need for pain management
• Mental health issues

Ostomy

Some people with mCRC may need surgery to remove part of their colon or rectum. If this happens, they may need an ostomy. An ostomy is a pouch that collects waste outside the body.^3,5

Living with an ostomy is a big adjustment. You may have to change certain aspects of your diet. You will need to learn how to clean and care for your ostomy bag. You may need to adapt your clothing or certain activities. Ostomies can also worsen your body image and overall confidence. All of these changes can impact your overall quality of life.^3,5

Treatment side effects

Typically, mCRC is treated with a combination of chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy. Like any cancer treatment, these therapies have side effects – some worse than others. These side effects can include:^3,6

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Weakened immune system (making you more susceptible to infections)
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Hair loss

Talk with your doctor about ways to reduce symptoms and side effects of treatment.³

Pain management

Pain can be caused by either the tumor(s) itself pressing on organs or bones, or by the cancer treatment. While pain is an unfortunate and common side effect of mCRC, it does not have to be unbearable. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage your pain, through medicines or other therapies.^3,6

Mental health issues

Living with a life-threatening illness like mCRC can take a toll on your mental health. It is common to feel sad, anxious, or even angry. Dealing with the stress and side effects of treatment, the impact the disease has on your caregiver and family, and the effects on your everyday life can be overwhelming.^3,4,7

Depression is particularly common. An estimated 8 to 24 percent of people with cancer have depression. But support from family, friends, and mental health professionals can make a big difference. Some people find comfort in talking to others who are also living with cancer.^3,7

Getting support

If you are living with mCRC, you are not alone. There are many available sources of support. You can reach out to cancer support groups, either online or in your local community. These groups provide:⁷

• Emotional support
• Practical advice
• Ways to cope
• A sense of connection with others who understand what you are going through

Your healthcare team also can connect you with counselors or social workers who specialize in helping people and their families cope with a cancer diagnosis.⁷

When to consider palliative care

There are times when the cancer becomes so advanced that it may be time to consider palliative care. Palliative care focuses on improving quality of life by managing symptoms, such as pain or nausea.⁸

This type of care does not aim to cure the cancer. But it can make you more comfortable. Palliative care can also provide emotional and spiritual support for both you and your family. You can start palliative care at any time, even while receiving cancer treatment.⁸

If you or a loved one is living with mCRC, do not hesitate to reach out for help. Your healthcare team is there to guide you, and support groups can connect you with others who understand.