Rectal cancer is a disease in which malignant cells (cancer cells) form in the tissues of the rectum.
The rectum is part of the body's
digestive system. The digestive system removes and processes nutrients (vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and water) from foods and helps pass waste material out of the body. The digestive system is made up of the esophagus, stomach, and the small and large intestines. The first six feet of the large intestine are called the large bowel or
colon. The last six inches are the rectum and the anal canal. The anal canal ends at the anus (the opening of the large intestine to the outside of the body).
Risk Factors for Rectal Cancer
People who are 50 years of age or older have a greater risk of developing rectal cancer than younger people. Other possible risk factors for this condition include the following:
- A family history of cancer of the colon or rectum
- A personal history of cancer of the colon, rectum, ovary, endometrium, or breast
- A history of polyps in the colon
- A history of ulcerative colitis (ulcers in the lining of the large intestine) or Crohn's disease
- Certain hereditary conditions, such as familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (also known as HNPCC or Lynch syndrome).
Symptoms of Rectal Cancer
There are a number of possible symptoms of rectal cancer. However, other conditions can cause the same symptoms. A doctor should be consulted if any of the following problems occur:
- A change in bowel habits
- Blood (either bright red or very dark) in the stool
- Diarrhea, constipation, or feeling that the bowel does not empty completely
- Stools that are narrower than usual
- General abdominal discomfort (frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness, or cramps)
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Vomiting.
How Rectal Cancer Is Diagnosed
Rectal cancer stages are based on whether the tumor has invaded nearby tissues, whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to what parts of the body. Knowing the stage is important in planning treatment.
The different stages of rectal cancer are:
- Stage 0
- Stage I
- Stage II
- Stage III
- Stage IV
- Recurrent.
Treatment for Rectal Cancer
People with rectal cancer have many treatment options available to them. These
rectal cancer treatment options include:
Many people receive more than one type of treatment. The choice of treatment depends mainly on the stage of rectal cancer. Your doctor can describe your treatment options and the expected results.
Prognosis With Rectal Cancer
- The stage of the cancer (whether it affects the inner lining of the rectum only, involves the whole rectum, or has spread to other places in the body)
- The person's general health
- Whether the cancer has just been diagnosed or has recurred (come back).
