Obtaining data on the costs associated with rectal cancer treatment is difficult. In the United States charge data is available but cost data is significantly more difficult to obtain. Using SEER-Medicare data from 1996 to 2002 Lang and associates estimated that lifetime excess costs at $26,500 for rectal cancer patients [42]. Huag and colleagues using health insurance data from Germany on patients diagnosed with rectal cancer between 2007 and 2010 calculated the mean incremental annualized coast to range $25,000 to $45,000 [43]. Additional charge estimates for aspects of rectal cancer treatment are also listed in Table 2.1 and average $72,000 to $75,000. Traditionally, charges have varied from 30 to 50 % of collectable fees which approximate costs. Finally, the time lost from work or other activities is an opportunity cost that is real but almost impossible to value.