Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the rectum, which is the last part of the large intestine. It is also known as colorectal cancer or bowel cancer. The rectum is a muscular tube that stores stool until it is eliminated from the body.

What is Rectal Cancer?

Rectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the rectum grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a tumor. These cancerous cells can invade the surrounding tissue and spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Symptoms of Rectal Cancer

The symptoms of rectal cancer may include:

• Blood in the stool or rectal bleeding
• Changes in bowel movements, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Narrowing of the stool
• Pain or discomfort in the abdomen or rectum
• Weakness or fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite

Causes and Risk Factors of Rectal Cancer

The exact cause of rectal cancer is not known, but there are several risk factors that can increase a person's chance of developing the disease. These include:

• Age: Rectal cancer is more common in people over the age of 50
• Family history: Having a family history of rectal or colon cancer increases the risk
• Diet: A diet high in red meat and low in fiber may increase the risk
• Smoking: Smoking tobacco products can increase the risk of rectal cancer
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk
• Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk
• Certain medical conditions: Such as inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, and acromegaly

Diagnosis of Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is typically diagnosed using a combination of tests, including:

• Colonoscopy: A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to visualize the inside of the rectum and colon
• Biopsy: A procedure that removes a sample of tissue from the rectum for examination under a microscope
• Imaging tests: Such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans to determine the extent of the cancer
• Blood tests: To check for signs of cancer in the blood, such as elevated levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)

Treatments for Rectal Cancer

The treatment for rectal cancer depends on the stage and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: To remove the tumor and surrounding tissue
• Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells with medication
• Radiation therapy: To kill cancer cells with high-energy rays
• Targeted therapy: To target specific molecules involved in cancer growth
• Immunotherapy: To stimulate the immune system to attack cancer cells

Surgical Options for Rectal Cancer

The surgical options for rectal cancer include:

• Low anterior resection (LAR): A procedure that removes the tumor and surrounding tissue, while preserving the anus and rectum
• Abdominoperineal resection (APR): A procedure that removes the tumor, rectum, and anus, requiring a permanent colostomy
• Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM): A minimally invasive procedure that uses an endoscope to remove small tumors

Stages of Rectal Cancer

The stages of rectal cancer are:

• Stage 0: The cancer is limited to the lining of the rectum and has not invaded deeper tissue
• Stage I: The cancer has grown into the wall of the rectum, but has not spread to lymph nodes or distant sites
• Stage II: The cancer has grown through the wall of the rectum and may have spread to nearby tissues, but has not spread to lymph nodes or distant sites
• Stage III: The cancer has spread to nearby lymph nodes, but has not spread to distant sites
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant sites, such as the liver or lungs

Prognosis and Survival Rates for Rectal Cancer

The prognosis and survival rates for rectal cancer depend on the stage and location of the tumor, as well as the overall health of the patient. Generally, the 5-year survival rate for people with rectal cancer is:

• 90% for those with stage I disease
• 70-80% for those with stage II disease
• 50-60% for those with stage III disease
• 10-20% for those with stage IV disease

Prevention and Screening for Rectal Cancer

To reduce the risk of rectal cancer, it is recommended to:

• Eat a healthy diet high in fiber and low in red meat
• Exercise regularly
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Avoid smoking tobacco products
• Get screened for rectal cancer starting at age 50, or earlier if there is a family history of the disease

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is rectal cancer?
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the rectum, which is the last part of the large intestine.

What are the symptoms of rectal cancer?
Symptoms may include bleeding, pain, or changes in bowel habits, but some people may not experience any symptoms initially.

What causes rectal cancer?
The exact cause is unclear, but risk factors include age, family history, and certain genetic conditions.

How is rectal cancer diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and biopsy.

What are the treatment options for rectal cancer?
Treatment may involve surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of these approaches.

Can rectal cancer be prevented?
While some risk factors cannot be changed, maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle may help reduce the risk.

Is rectal cancer curable?
In some cases, rectal cancer can be cured, especially if caught early, but the outcome depends on various factors.

What is the prognosis for rectal cancer?
Prognosis varies depending on the stage of cancer and individual patient factors.

Are there different types of rectal cancer?
Yes, rectal cancer can be classified into different types based on the type of cells involved and other characteristics.

Can rectal cancer recur after treatment?
Yes, it is possible for rectal cancer to recur, so ongoing monitoring and follow-up care are important.