Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is a disease that occurs when cancerous cells develop in the tissue of the rectum. Risk factors for the disease include having a family history of rectal or colon cancer, being 50 years of age or older, and having a personal history of polyps in the colon. If symptoms of rectal cancer are present, they may include bowel problems (such as blood in the stool, narrow stools, and diarrhea or constipation). Tests used to diagnose rectal cancer include digital rectal exams and fecal occult blood tests (FOBT). Treatment for the disease may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of methods.

 

An Overview of Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is a disease in which malignant cells (cancer cells) form in the tissues of the rectum.
 

Rectal Cancer and 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 6 feet of the large intestine are called the large bowel or colon. The last 6 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).
 

Rectal Cancer Risk Factors

People who are 50 years of age or older have a greater risk of developing rectal cancer than younger people do. Other possible risk factors for rectal cancer 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).
     
(Rectal Cancer Continued: Page 2)
Add this article to your Favorites     Email this article     Print
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD