Rectal cancer is a form of cancer that develops in the rectum, the last several inches of the large intestine, ending at the anus. It is a significant health concern worldwide and shares many characteristics and treatment protocols with colon cancer, collectively referred to as colorectal cancer. Understanding the signs, risk factors, and treatment options for rectal cancer can empower individuals and help them seek timely medical intervention.
Understanding Rectal Cancer
Rectal cancer starts in the rectal cells and can grow into tumors that invade and destroy normal tissue nearby or spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body. The symptoms of rectal cancer often include changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), rectal bleeding or blood in the stool, a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation, abdominal pain or discomfort, weakness or fatigue, and unexplained weight loss. However, early stages of rectal cancer may not present any symptoms, which makes regular screenings crucial.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing rectal cancer. These include older age (many people are diagnosed after age 50), a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps, inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis, a diet high in red and processed meats and low in fiber, obesity, and smoking.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing rectal cancer typically involves a combination of procedures and tests. One common diagnostic tool is a colonoscopy, which allows doctors to examine the entire colon and rectum and perform biopsies of suspicious areas. Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, and ultrasounds may also be employed to help stage the cancer and determine how far it has spread.
Treatment Options
Treatment for rectal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer, the overall health of the patient, and other factors. The main treatments include:
- Surgery: This is a primary treatment for localized rectal cancer. Techniques vary from minimally invasive methods like transanal excision to major surgeries like a low anterior resection (LAR) or an abdominoperineal resection (APR), which may involve removing the rectum and creating a permanent colostomy.
- Radiation Therapy: This is often used before surgery to shrink tumors and make them easier to remove. It can also be used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Utilized to kill cancer cells, chemotherapy is typically given before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: These newer forms of treatment target specific abnormalities present within cancer cells or stimulate the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
Preventive Measures and Screening
Adopting healthy lifestyle habits — such as maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular physical activity, limiting alcohol, quitting smoking, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains — may help reduce the risk of rectal cancer. Regular screenings, such as colonoscopy starting at age 45 or earlier depending on risk factors, are critical as they can detect precancerous polyps. Your doctor may be able to remove these before they turn into cancer.
Rectal cancer is a serious but treatable disease, especially when detected and diagnosed early. Awareness and understanding of the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options are vital. Regular screenings and proactive health measures are effective strategies in the prevention and early detection of rectal cancer, offering a higher chance for successful treatment outcomes.
Resource Links
“Rectal Cancer” via Mayo Clinic
“Rectal Cancer” via Cleveland Clinic