Rectal cancer is a malignant tumor in the colon. Cancer cells infect the layer that lines its inner surface. The tumor can grow in two directions: both into the passage itself and into the wall.
In recent years, colon cancer has come out on top in cancer statistics, where rectal cancer accounts for almost half of all cases. It should be noted that this disease mostly affects residents of developed countries such as America, Australia, European countries.
Causes of disease
Scientists have not yet decided on the causes of rectal cancer. But some factors still give a fairly large percentage of the occurrence of this disease:
- heredity (if someone in the family had or has rectal cancer, then a colonoscopy is recommended once a year);
- other colon problems (polyps, etc.);
- low fiber diet;
- constipation;
- work in hazardous production.
Early symptoms of rectal cancer
In the early stages of the disease, there may bethe following symptoms:
- constipation;
- discomfort;
- intestinal disorders;
- weight loss.
These manifestations do not always mean that there is rectal cancer. A symptom of any of the above can mean a completely different diagnosis, but you need to check it out. After all, cancer is an asymptomatic disease in its early stages. And when more obvious manifestations appear, it may be too late.
When diagnosed with rectal cancer, there may be one symptom, or there may be many. Later manifestations of cancer include:
- blood in bowel movements;
- discharge of mucus from the anus;
- false toilet calls;
- pain during bowel movements and after.
A tumor in the large intestine grows relatively slowly, but within about two years, the tumor is able to completely cover the intestine. The tumor then spreads to the hip bones, nearby organs, and lymph nodes. With the blood flow, cancer cells spread throughout the body and metastases appear in the lungs, liver and other organs.
Many people don't realize they have rectal cancer. A symptom, such as constipation, will make few people see a doctor. However, you still need to at least visit a therapist.
How to treat rectal cancer?
The traditional treatment is surgery. Depending on the patient's condition, only the tumor can be removed, or part of the intestine can also be cut out. Sometimes the intestine is removedcompletely, along with the anus. In this case, a colostomy (artificial anus) is applied.
Chemotherapy and radiation can be used before and after surgery. According to which scheme the treatment will be carried out, the attending physician will determine based on the results of all examinations.
When diagnosed with rectal cancer, there may be no symptom at all. But nevertheless, it is necessary to be examined annually by a proctologist or the therapist must send for the necessary studies. Serious examinations are unlikely to be scheduled in the absence of complaints, but it is quite possible to take a blood test for tumor markers and feces, for an admixture of blood.
To prevent colon cancer, you should eat a lot of vegetables and herbs, bran and other indigestible foods. Get regular check-ups and stay active.
