Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the last part of the large intestine called the rectum. More than one causes of rectal cancer has. It usually develops as a result of the combination of more than one factor.
What are the symptoms of rectum cancer?
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the last part of the large intestine called the rectum. Symptoms of rectal cancer occur in its advanced stages and may include a variety of symptoms.
Sudden changes in bowel habits may be a sign of rectal cancer. A feeling of squeezing or obstruction is felt in the rectum or anus during bowel movements.
Seeing blood in the stool is one of the most important symptoms of rectal cancer. Blood color may be red or dark. Thin or pencil-like stools may indicate a blockage or narrowing in the intestine.
Rectal cancer can cause constant or intermittent pain in the abdomen or lower abdomen. Chronic feelings of gas or bloating may be a sign of a blockage or discomfort in the intestine.
Anemia may develop due to blood loss. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and pale skin color. Dizziness, shortness of breath and rapid heartbeat may occur due to anemia. Sudden and unexplained weight loss may be one of the symptoms of rectal cancer.
Symptoms of rectal cancer appear in the advanced stages of the disease. It is important for patients to recognize symptoms before starting treatment. When any symptoms of rectal cancer are suspected, a healthcare professional should be consulted. Early diagnosis is an important factor in the treatment of rectal cancer and can increase treatment success.
What are the Causes of Rectum Cancer?
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the last part of the large intestine called the rectum. Causes of rectal cancer is not known exactly. However, it is thought to develop as a result of a combination of factors.
- As we age, the risk of cellular damage and mutation increases. Therefore, rectal cancer is generally more common in individuals over the age of 50.
- The risk of cancer increases in individuals with a family history of rectal cancer. Certain gene mutations may increase the risk of rectal cancer.
- Benign tumors called adenomatous polyps in the intestine can turn into cancer over time. Particularly large-sized polyps or polyps with dysplasia increase the risk of rectal cancer.
- Conditions that affect bowel motility, such as IBS, may increase the risk of rectal cancer. Constant inflammation and other diseases that can damage intestinal cells also increase your risk.
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption may increase the risk of rectal cancer. These habits contribute to the accumulation of toxic substances and the development of cancer.
- A high-fat, low-fiber diet may increase the risk of rectal cancer. Consumption of red meat and processed meat products, in particular, may increase the risk of rectal cancer.
- Being physically inactive, obesity and sedentary lifestyle increase the risk of rectal cancer.
Rectal cancer is a complex disease that develops as a result of the combination of multiple factors. To reduce risk factors, it is important to adopt a healthy lifestyle and have regular screenings.
Rectum Cancer Treatment
Rectal cancer is a serious disease that affects the last part of the digestive system. Treatment methods, causes of rectal cancerThe stage may vary depending on the patient's health condition.
One of the most commonly used methods in the treatment of rectal cancer is surgery. Surgery aims to remove the cancer and surrounding healthy tissue. Different types of operations can be performed depending on the stage of cancer:
Local excision is used for early-stage rectal cancer. It is the process of removing cancerous tissue and some surrounding tissue. Rectal resection is performed in cases where cancer affects a large part of the rectum. It involves removing the affected rectum and reconnecting the intestines.
If the cancer is very close to the anus, the rectum and anus may need to be completely removed. In this case, the patient is given a permanent colostomy (an artificial opening that allows stool to be removed from the body).
Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays (usually X-rays) to kill or shrink cancer cells. This treatment may be used before and after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer spreading. Radiotherapy can be administered alone or in combination with chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy is a treatment method that uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. Chemotherapy can be used with or without radiotherapy. It is also preferred to shrink the tumor before surgery or to kill remaining cancer cells after surgery.
In recent years, great advances have been made in cancer treatment. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy target cancer cells, causing less damage to healthy cells. These treatments are especially promising for cancers that are resistant to traditional treatments.
Rectum cancer treatment is carried out with surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This necessitates a multidisciplinary approach. Innovative targeted therapy and immunotherapy offer new hope for particularly resistant types of cancer. Treatment plans are personalized depending on the stage of the cancer and the patient's health condition. However, causes of rectal cancer Among the genetic factors and lifestyle choices are of critical importance.