Rectal Cancer

Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the rectum, the last 15 centimeters of the colon just above the anus. 

It accounts for about 20 percent of colorectal cancers (cancers of the large intestine and rectum). Approximately 12.000 people are diagnosed with rectal cancer every year in Turkey. It is more common in men than women. The incidence increases with age and is more common in people over the age of 65. Colorectal cancers are the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in Turkey.

Approximately 1.8 million people worldwide are diagnosed with rectal cancer each year. It is more common in developed countries than in developing countries. Rectal cancer ranks sixth in cancer deaths worldwide.

What are the Symptoms of Rectal Cancer?

Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the last part of the large intestine called the rectum. Symptoms usually occur in the advanced stages of the disease. The most common symptoms of rectal cancer are listed below:

• Blood in feces
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Difficulty in defecation
• Abdominal pain
• Pain or bleeding in the anus

Symptoms of rectal cancer often appear in advanced stages, so it is important to have regular health checks for early detection and to see a health professional when symptoms appear. When uncomfortable symptoms are noticed, consulting a doctor immediately can help detect cancer in the early stages and increase the chances of treatment.

What Causes Rectal Cancer?

Rectal cancer is a condition that usually occurs as a result of a combination of certain factors. These factors include genetic and environmental factors. Here are the main factors that can cause rectal cancer:

• Family history of colorectal cancer
• Advanced age
• Obesity
• Red meat and processed meat consumption
• Smoking
• Alcohol use
• Inadequate physical activity
• Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis

Cancer of the rectum is usually caused by a combination of these factors. However, there is no rule that a person exposed to these risk factors will necessarily develop rectal cancer. Regular health check-ups, early detection, and lifestyle changes can play an important role in reducing the risk of rectal cancer. If there are any concerns, it is important to talk to a health professional.

How is Rectal Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of rectal cancer is done using various medical tests and imaging methods. These methods help determine the type, stage and treatment options of cancer. Here are the main methods used in the diagnosis of rectal cancer:

• Rectal Examination: The doctor focuses on feeling the rectum and surrounding tissues by performing a finger rectal examination. This examination can help detect the presence of abnormal masses or swelling.
• Sigmoidoscopy: In this procedure, a thin, bendable tube (sigmoidoscope) is inserted into the rectum and sigmoid colon. This allows the doctor to examine the lining of these areas and see possible tumors. However, sigmoidoscopy can only visualize the lower part of the rectum.
• Colonoscopy: Colonoscopy is a procedure in which the lining of the entire intestine is examined using a flexible tube (colonoscope). This method can help detect rectal cancer as well as intestinal polyps.
• Biopsy: In the presence of a suspicious mass or lesion, the doctor may perform a biopsy. In this procedure, a sample of abnormal tissues is taken and examined in the laboratory. Biopsy results play an important role in determining the type and aggressiveness of cancer.
• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to determine the extent of cancer spread. These tests provide detailed information about the condition of the lymph nodes and surrounding tissues.
• Blood Tests: Some blood tests can assess the presence or progression of the disease by measuring certain markers of rectal cancer cells.

Diagnosis of rectal cancer usually involves a combination and a treatment plan is created based on the results of these tests. Early diagnosis can help to treat the cancer more effectively and improve health outcomes. In case of any suspicious symptoms, it is important to contact a health professional.

How is Rectal Cancer Treated?

The methods used in the treatment of rectal cancer vary according to the general health status of the patient, the stage of cancer, and the location of the tumor in the rectum. The most commonly used method in the treatment of rectal cancer is surgery. During surgery, the tumourous tissue and some healthy tissues around it are also removed. Rectal cancer surgery can be performed in two ways:

• Open surgery: An incision is made in the abdomen and the tumor is removed.
• Laparoscopic surgery: Several small incisions are made in the abdomen, a camera and surgical instruments are inserted and the tumor is removed in this way.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a drug treatment used to kill cancer cells. It can be applied before or after surgery. Chemotherapy helps to reduce the risk of rectal cancer recurring and prevent it from spreading to other organs.
• Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy is a treatment used to kill or shrink cancer cells using high-energy X-rays or protons. It can be applied before or after surgery. Radiotherapy helps prevent rectal cancer from penetrating the rectal wall and reduces the risk of damage to neighboring organs during surgery.
• Targeted Treatment: Targeted therapies are drugs that prevent cancer cells from growing and multiplying. These treatments target specific genes or proteins found in tumor cells. Targeted therapies can be used in addition to chemotherapy and radiotherapy in the treatment of rectal cancer.
• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a treatment method that enables the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Immunotherapy drugs help the immune system fight cancer cells more effectively.

It should not be forgotten that the success rate of rectal cancer treatment depends on the patient's general health status, the stage of cancer and the location of the tumor in the rectum. Early detection and treatment significantly increase the survival rate of rectal cancer. Contact Medwide for more information.