About Rectal Cancer
Rectal cancer is caused by a combination of disease factors and risk factors. Rectal cancer typically develops from abnormal growths called polyps in the rectum. Over time, these polyps can become cancerous and invade the surrounding tissues.
Genetic mutations play a role in the development of rectal cancer, particularly mutations in genes involved in DNA repair and tumor suppression pathways.
Non-modifiable risk factors are factors that cannot be changed or controlled. Non-modifiable risk factors of rectal cancer include:
- Increasing age is a significant non-modifiable risk factor for rectal cancer. The risk increases after the age of 40 and rises sharply after the age of 50.
- Gender is also a non-modifiable risk factor, with males being more likely than females to develop rectal cancer.
- Genetic predispositions, such as a positive family history of colorectal cancer or related cancers, can increase the risk.
- Other factors, such as chronic inflammation in the rectum (such as in inflammatory bowel disease), can also contribute to the development of rectal cancer.
Modifiable risk factors are factors that can be influenced or changed. Modifiable risk factors of rectal cancer include:
- Smoking is a modifiable risk factor that contributes to the development of rectal cancer. It is responsible for 8.4% of colorectal cancer diagnoses and deaths in males.
- Westernized diets, which are low in fruits and vegetables and high in processed meat and red meat, have been associated with an increased risk of rectal cancer.
- Physical inactivity and chronic diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, and coronary artery disease, are modifiable risk factors that can contribute to the development of rectal cancer.
Please note that these are general descriptions and individual circumstances may vary. It's always important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Common symptoms of rectal cancer include:
- Rectal bleeding
- Changes in bowel habits
- Feeling that the bowel isn't emptying completely
As rectal cancer progresses, other common symptoms may occur, such as:
- Unexplained weakness and fatigue
- Pain when having a bowel movement
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Blood or mucus in the stool
- Unintentional weight loss and appetite changes
- Frequent abdominal discomfort, gas, cramps, or pain
It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's essential to consult with a doctor for an accurate diagnosis. If you experience any concerning symptoms or have any concerns, it is always wise to seek medical advice.
To diagnose rectal cancer, doctors commonly perform the following examinations, tests, and procedures:
- Personal and family medical history: Doctors will ask about your medical history to understand any potential risk factors.
- Physical exam: A physical examination helps doctors assess any abnormalities or lumps in the rectal area.
- Digital rectal exam (DRE): This procedure involves a doctor inserting a gloved finger into the rectum to feel for any lumps.
- Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy allows doctors to examine the rectum and colon for polyps or other abnormal growths.
- Biopsy: During a colonoscopy, a doctor can take a tissue sample (biopsy) to test for cancer.
To determine the stage or severity of rectal cancer, additional examinations and tests may be performed:
- Imaging tests: These may include CT scans, MRI scans, PET scans or endorectal ultrasound. These tests help determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
- Tumor marker tests: Certain chemicals produced by the body in response to cancer, such as carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), can be tested in blood samples.
Remember, these are general procedures, and the specific diagnostic approach may vary based on individual circumstances. It's important to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized advice.
The goals of treatment for rectal cancer are to improve survival, prevent local recurrence, and preserve bowel, sexual, and genitourinary function. To achieve these goals, various treatment options are used. Here are the different types of treatments and how they work:
Medication:
- Chemotherapy: Medications are used to kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
- Targeted therapy: Drugs target specific molecules in cancer cells to inhibit their growth.
Therapies:
- Radiation therapy: High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors.
- Neoadjuvant therapy: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy is given before surgery to reduce tumor size and increase the chances of successful surgery.
- Adjuvant therapy: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy is given after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Therapeutic Procedures:
- Surgery: The main treatment for rectal cancer involves removing the tumor and nearby lymph nodes. Different surgical techniques may be used, such as total mesorectal excision (TME).
- Endoscopic removal: Early-stage tumors may be removed using minimally invasive endoscopic procedures.
Health Behavior Changes:
- Diet modifications: A healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support overall health during treatment.
- Physical activity: Regular exercise can help improve physical strength and overall well-being.
It's important to note that specific treatment plans vary depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.