Rectal Cancer- Causes, Symptoms, Treatments
Rectal Cancer refers to cancer that develops in the rectum, which is the final portion of the large intestine before it exits the body. The rectum stores stool that comes from the colon before it is expelled through the anus. Cells that make up the lining of the rectum can potentially become cancerous and start to reproduce uncontrollably. This can form rectal tumors that may grow and invade surrounding tissue and spread to other areas of the body. It is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in both men and women. As the Best Cancer Hospital in Pune, Team Galaxy Care Hospital is here to help you understand Rectal Cancer and seek timely treatment.
Leading Causes of Rectal Cancer
Like other cancers, the exact cause of rectal cancer is unknown. However, several factors may increase a person’s risk of developing rectal cancer.
• Age- Rectal cancer is more common in adults over the age of 50. The risk increases with age.
• Diet- A diet high in red and processed meats and low in fruits and vegetables has been linked to a higher risk of rectal cancer.
• Inflammatory Bowel Syndrome- Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis that cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract increase the risk of rectal cancer.
• Family History- People with a family history of colorectal cancer or certain genetic syndromes have a higher risk.
• Lifestyle- Obesity, physical inactivity, smoking and heavy alcohol use can also increase the risk of rectal cancer.
Common Symptoms of Rectal Cancer
The following signs and symptoms may indicate rectal cancer. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, consult the Best Oncologist in Pune before it’s too late.
• Blood in stool or changing stool caliber- The most common first symptom is noticing blood
in the stool or a change in bowel habits.
• Rectal pain or the urge to have a bowel movement right after having one.
• Abdominal discomfort-Such as cramps, bloating or gas pains.
• Fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Nausea or vomiting
• Constipation
• Feeling the need to empty the bowel even after having an empty bowel movement.
Risk Factors for Rectal Cancer
Besides the causes listed above, other factors that may increase the risk of rectal cancer include:
• Acromegaly – A condition caused by excess growth hormone
• Estrogen exposure – Prolonged use of estrogen hormone therapy may raise rectal cancer risk slightly.
• UV light exposure – Especially sunburns in childhood.
• HIV/AIDS infection – People with HIV/AIDS face higher rectal cancer risks.
• Certain parasitic infections – Such as schistosomiasis.
• Previous radiation therapy to the pelvis.
Treatment Options for Rectal Cancer
Treatment options for rectal cancer depend on several factors, including the stage of cancer and a person’s overall health. Common treatment options include:
• Laparoscopic Surgery- The main treatment for early-stage rectal cancer involves surgically removing the tumor along with some surrounding healthy tissue. The surgery may be done using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery. Seek consultation with the Best Laparoscopic Surgeon in Pune.
• Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy- These are often used before or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of the cancer returning. They are especially important for more advanced rectal cancers.
• Targeted Therapy- Certain drugs that target specific molecular pathways involved in cancer cell growth may be used along with chemotherapy for some advanced rectal cancers.
• Palliative Care – This focuses on relieving pain and other symptoms for people with later-stage rectal cancer that can’t be cured. The goal is to improve the quality of life.
Consult the Best Cancer Specialist in Pune for Rectal Cancer Treatment
In summary, rectal cancer remains a serious condition. However, with early detection and treatment at a renowned cancer hospital like Galaxy Care Hospital in Pune, people diagnosed with rectal cancer have a good chance of successful treatment and long-term survival. Our advanced treatment techniques and expertise ensure the best outcomes for rectal cancer patients. If you or your loved one seeking the best rectal cancer treatment in Pune, feel free to get in touch with us!
