How are you taking part in this consultation?

You will not be able to change how you comment later.

You must be signed in to answer questions

    The content on this page is not current guidance and is only for the purposes of the consultation process.

    Indications and current treatment

    Colorectal cancer is a common cancer. It typically occurs in people older than 50, with the risk increasing with age. About 5% to 20% of people with colorectal cancer have locally advanced disease, in which the cancer has invaded nearby tissues. After primary resection to remove the tumour, it returns in the same place in about 5% to 20% of people.

    There are various treatments for colorectal cancer, including resection, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Treatment choice depends on the type of cancer, location and staging. The radicality of resection is the most important prognostic factor for survival. Resection is referred to as:

    • R0, when there are clear margins around the tumour

    • R1, when there are microscopically involved margins

    • R2, when there are macroscopically involved margins or gross residual disease.