Survival rates are based on historical data and represent averages across many patients. Individual outcomes can vary significantly based on many factors including treatment response, overall health, and advances in medicine. These statistics should be discussed with your oncologist.
Colorectal Cancer Survival Overview
Second most common cancer in Singapore. Survival has improved significantly with advances in screening and treatment.
Survival Rates by Stage at Diagnosis
Stage at diagnosis is one of the strongest predictors of survival. Earlier detection typically leads to better outcomes.
| Stage | Description | 1-Year | 3-Year | 5-Year | 10-Year | % Diagnosed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I Localized | Cancer confined to primary site | 98% | 95% | 91% | 85% | 34% |
| II Regional | Spread to nearby lymph nodes | 92% | 82% | 73% | 65% | 28% |
| III Regional+ | Extensive regional spread | 85% | 68% | 58% | 48% | 18% |
| IV Distant | Metastasized to distant organs | 45% | 22% | 15% | 10% | 20% |
Survival Rates by Age Group
Age at diagnosis can affect both treatment options and outcomes. Younger patients often have better survival rates, though this varies by cancer type.
| Age Group | 1-Year | 3-Year | 5-Year | 10-Year | % of Cases | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 40 | 90% | 78% | 70% | 65% | 3% | May indicate hereditary factors |
| 40-49 | 91% | 80% | 72% | 66% | 8% | Rising incidence in this group |
| 50-59 | 89% | 77% | 69% | 62% | 18% | Screening typically begins |
| 60-69 | 87% | 74% | 65% | 55% | 28% | Most common age group |
| 70-79 | 82% | 66% | 55% | 42% | 28% | Comorbidities may affect treatment |
| 80+ | 68% | 48% | 38% | 25% | 15% | Treatment focused on quality of life |
Combined Age + Stage Survival (5-Year)
This table shows how both age and stage at diagnosis combine to affect survival outcomes.
| Age / Stage | I Localized | II Regional | III Regional+ | IV Distant |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 50 | 93% | 78% | 65% | 22% |
| 50-64 | 92% | 75% | 60% | 18% |
| 65-74 | 90% | 70% | 52% | 14% |
| 75+ | 82% | 58% | 40% | 8% |
Long-Term Survival (10 and 20 Years)
Long-term survival data is limited but important for planning. Note that 20-year data is based on older treatment protocols.
| Cancer Type | 5-Year | 10-Year | 20-Year | Data Quality |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thyroid | 98% | 97% | 95% | Good Data |
| Prostate | 98% | 95% | ~85% | Good Data |
| Breast | 90% | 84% | ~78% | Good Data |
| Colorectal | 65% | 58% | ~52% | Moderate Data |
| Lung | 24% | 15% | ~10% | Limited Data |
| Liver | 21% | 12% | ~8% | Limited Data |
| Pancreas | 12% | 8% | ~5% | Limited Data |
Singapore vs International Survival Rates
Comparing Singapore outcomes with international benchmarks (5-year relative survival).
| Cancer Type | Singapore | US (SEER) | UK | Global Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Breast | 82% | 90% | 85% | 73% |
| Colorectal | 62% | 65% | 60% | 50% |
| Lung | 26% | 24% | 17% | 18% |
| Prostate | 89% | 98% | 88% | 70% |
| Stomach | 32% | 33% | 20% | 25% |
| Liver | 18% | 21% | 13% | 18% |
Key Takeaways
- Stage at diagnosis matters most: Early-stage cancers have dramatically better outcomes than late-stage cancers. Regular screening is crucial.
- Survival rates are improving: From 1968-2022, cancer mortality in Singapore decreased from 93 to 72 deaths per 100,000 despite rising incidence.
- Individual outcomes vary: Statistics represent averages - your outcome depends on many factors including treatment response and overall health.
- Newer treatments not fully reflected: Statistics are based on patients diagnosed years ago. Recent advances may improve current outcomes.
- Age affects but doesn't determine: While older patients generally have lower survival rates, many factors influence individual prognosis.