Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the rectum, the last six inches of our large intestine. Like other organs in our body, the rectum is vulnerable to many diseases and conditions, such as cancer. Causes and Risk Factors of Rectal CancerWe can't exactly pinpoint what causes rectal cancer, but we know what may increase our risk of developing it. Risk factors for rectal cancer include:
- being older than 50
- family or personal history of colon cancer (a person does not need a family history of colon cancer to have rectal cancer; it is most commonly diagnosed in those without a family history.)
- personal history of polyps(small growths in the colon)
- smoking
In the early stages, rectal cancer usually doesn't have symptoms. As the disease
progresses, which can take years, symptoms include:
Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy allows the doctor to get an in-depth view of the colon with a colonoscope, a fiber optic tube that is attached to a microscopic camera that transmits live video to a monitor. The colonoscope is gently inserted in to the anus and slowly to the colon, giving the doctor a full view of the rectum and large intestine.
Sigmoidoscopy. Much like a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy is done with a flexible lighted tube with an attached camera, but it is limited to only the lower part of the colon.
Barium Enema. During a barium enema, a doctor inserts liquid barium in to the rectum. X-rays are taken of you laying in several positions. The barium allows the colon to be viewed better on x-rays.
- blood
in stool
- persistent constipation, diarrhea or other bowel changes
- thinner stools
- unexplained weight loss
- abdominal pain, tenderness, cramping or discomfort
- fatigue
Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy allows the doctor to get an in-depth view of the colon with a colonoscope, a fiber optic tube that is attached to a microscopic camera that transmits live video to a monitor. The colonoscope is gently inserted in to the anus and slowly to the colon, giving the doctor a full view of the rectum and large intestine.
- Video: See What to Expect During a Colonoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy. Much like a colonoscopy, a sigmoidoscopy is done with a flexible lighted tube with an attached camera, but it is limited to only the lower part of the colon.
- What to Expect During a Sigmoidoscopy
- Diagram of a Sigmoidoscopy
Barium Enema. During a barium enema, a doctor inserts liquid barium in to the rectum. X-rays are taken of you laying in several positions. The barium allows the colon to be viewed better on x-rays.
