In this article, we explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of rectal cancer. It is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention.
Causes
Rectal cancer is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Risk factors may include:
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Most cases of cancer are diagnosed in individuals over the age of 50, with risk increasing with age.
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A family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), increases risk.
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A history of colorectal polyps or inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease.
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The following lifestyle factors may increase the risk of rectal cancer: obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a diet high in red and processed meats.
Symptoms
Rectal cancer symptoms include:
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Bleeding in the rectum or blood in the stool
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An altered bowel habit, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a narrowing of the stool
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Uncomfortable abdominal cramps or pain that persists
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Weight loss that is unexplained
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Fatigue or weakness
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Incomplete emptying of the bowels
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Anemia due to iron deficiency
Diagnosis
Rectal cancer is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Diagnostic procedures may include:
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Performing a digital rectal examination to detect abnormalities or masses in the rectum
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To visualize the rectum and colon and detect any suspicious lesions or tumors, a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy is performed
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In order to confirm the presence of cancer cells, a biopsy of suspicious tissue samples is conducted for pathological examination
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An imaging study, such as a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan, is used to determine the extent of cancer spread (staging).
Treatment
Depending on the stage of the disease, rectal cancer may be treated with:
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Surgical removal of the cancerous tumor and surrounding tissues (resection), along with lymph node removal, may be necessary.
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To shrink tumors or prevent recurrence, radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells.
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In chemotherapy, anti-cancer drugs are administered orally or intravenously to kill cancer cells or prevent their growth and spread, sometimes combined with radiation therapy (chemoradiation).
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For advanced or metastatic rectal cancer, targeted therapies can be effective, particularly if they target cancer cells or their molecular pathways.
Prevention
Rectal cancer can be prevented by:
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In individuals at increased risk because of age, family history, or personal medical history, screening tests such as colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy are recommended for early detection of colorectal cancer.
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Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help reduce your risk of developing rectal cancer.
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Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or genetic syndromes associated with increased cancer risk should consider genetic counseling and testing to assess their risk and make informed screening and prevention decisions.
