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Stage 4 cancer is the most advanced stage of cancer. It is diagnosed when cancer cells spread, or metastasize to other parts of the body away from the original tumor site. As such, stage 4 cancer is also called metastatic cancer.

Although some people with stage 4 cancer can live for years, the prognosis often isn't good. Therefore, the goal of treatment is not to cure the cancer but to slow or stop its growth, relieve symptoms, and extend survival time.