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What is Rectal Cancer?
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the linings of the last part of the large intestine. It is also referred to as colon or colorectal cancer. It is estimated that in the United States, over 145,000 new cases of rectal cancer are diagnosed every year, and this type of cancer can affect both men and women.
Symptoms Of Rectal Cancer
Early detection of rectal cancer is key to successful treatment, and some of the common symptoms associated with rectal cancer include:
- Chronic or intermittent abdominal pain or discomfort
- Abnormal bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
- Anemia
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- A feeling of fullness in the rectum
Causes of Rectal Cancer
The exact cause of rectal cancer is unknown, but several risk factors have been identified, such as:
- Family history
- Age (over 50)
- Inflammatory bowel disease (such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease)
- Smoking
- Radiation exposure
- Obesity
- Diet (high red-meat consumption and low-fiber diets)
Treatment Options for Rectal Cancer
The most common treatment options for rectal cancer include:
- Surgery – removal of the cancerous tumor and surrounding tissues.
- Radiation therapy – use of high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy – use of anti-cancer medications to kill cancer cells.
- Targeted therapy – using drugs that are designed to target specific genes and proteins in cancer cells.
Health and Living with Rectal Cancer
Living with rectal cancer can be a challenging experience, and it is important to manage both physical and mental health. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest can help improve physical and mental wellbeing. It is also important to stay in regular contact with the doctor or health care team for checkups and follow-up care.