Rectal cancer is the fourth most deadly kind of cancer, with an average survival rate of just over five years. This means that rectal cancer is a cause for serious concern, and there are a lot of things you can do to help prevent it. Let us cover everything you need to know about rectal cancer treatment and how to protect yourself from it.
What is Rectal Cancer?
Rectal cancer is the most common cancer in men and the second most common cancer in women. Rectal cancer is caused when cells in the bowel (the lower part of the large intestine) grow out of control.
Types of Rectal Cancer
There are three types of rectal cancer:
Adenocarcinoma: Adenocarcinoma is the most common type and accounts for about 60% to 70% of all cases.
Squamous cell carcinoma: Squamous cell carcinoma is less common but more aggressive than adenocarcinoma.
Melanoma: Melanoma is rare but very dangerous because it can spread to other parts of the body.
The early diagnosis and treatment of rectal cancer are critical because it has a very poor prognosis. About 90% of people with adenocarcinoma will die from the disease, while about 50% of people with squamous cell carcinoma will die from it. Melanoma has a much worse prognosis, with only about 10% surviving five years after diagnosis.
Causes of Rectal Cancer
There are a few things that increase your risk of developing rectal cancer, that include:
Family history of the disease
Being overweight
Excess consumption of red meat
High blood pressure
Smoking
Excessive alcohol consumption
Environmental exposures (such as radiation exposure)
Prevention of Rectal Cancer
There are many ways to reduce your risk of developing rectal cancer. Some things you can do include:
Exercising regularly
Quitting smoking
Eating a healthy diet
Controlling your blood pressure and weight
Avoiding excessive drinking or tobacco use.
Symptoms of Rectal Cancer
Symptoms of rectal cancer may include:
A change in bowel habits.
Constipation.
Diarrhoea.
Feeling that the bowel does not empty.
Stools that are narrower or have a different shape than usual.
Blood in the stool.
General abdominal discomfort (frequent bloating, gas pains, cramps, or fullness).
Change in appetite.
Feeling very tired.
Weight loss for no known reason.
Diagnosis of Rectal Cancer The doctor will conduct a physical examination and inquire about your medical history in order to identify rectal cancer. To look for indications of tumor growth, the doctor might also perform a blood test (known as tumor markers). They will most likely advise an examination by a colorectal surgeon (a specialist in treating rectal cancer) to confirm the diagnosis after gathering this information.
Early detection of rectal cancer increases the likelihood of full or partial recovery with no long-term effects other than ongoing yearly screenings.
Treatment of Rectal Cancer
Rectal cancer is typically treated with surgery to remove the tumor plus radiation and chemotherapy if the tumor is located in the area near the anus or if it has spread beyond the original site. However, there is no one “standard” rectal cancer treatment; each patient’s individual needs must be considered during treatment planning.
Conclusion
Rectal cancer is a very serious condition and should not be taken lightly. It is important to contact your doctor as soon as possible for an examination. There are many different types of cancers, but rectal cancer is one of the most common. With early detection and treatment, most people who develop rectal cancer can live long, healthy lives.
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