Back to Results
Rectal Cancer
Urgent
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the tissues of the rectum, the lower part of the large intestine. It often develops from abnormal growths in the lining of the colon or rectum. The disease may cause changes in bowel habits or bleeding, although some people have no symptoms in its early stages.
Body System
Digestive System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Rectal cancer requires prompt medical evaluation and treatment. Seek assessment for rectal bleeding, persistent changes in bowel habits, narrowing of the stool, unexplained weight loss, persistent pelvic or abdominal pain, or worsening symptoms. Emergency care is needed for significant bleeding, severe abdominal pain, bowel obstruction symptoms, fainting, or sudden deterioration.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the tissues of the rectum, the lower part of the large intestine. It often develops from abnormal growths in the lining of the colon or rectum. The disease may cause changes in bowel habits or bleeding, although some people have no symptoms in its early stages.
Symptoms 3
Jaundice
Painful Urination
Persistent Hoarseness
Causes 2
Rectal cancer develops when cells in the rectum acquire changes that cause them to grow and divide abnormally. These changes can accumulate over time and may be influenced by inherited factors, personal health history, environmental exposures, and lifestyle-related factors. Precancerous colorectal polyps can sometimes develop into cancer if they are not detected and removed.
Obesity
Smoking
Risk Factors
Risk factors include increasing age, a family history of colorectal cancer, a personal history of colorectal cancer or high-risk adenomas, inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome or familial adenomatous polyposis, long-standing inflammatory bowel disease, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity, and higher alcohol consumption. Having a risk factor does not mean that a person will develop rectal cancer.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Evaluation may include a medical and family history, physical examination, and examination of the rectum and colon. Tests can include a digital rectal examination, colonoscopy, biopsy, and laboratory or molecular tests when appropriate. Imaging studies are commonly used after diagnosis to determine the extent of the disease and whether it has spread.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Risk may be reduced by avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and limiting excessive alcohol consumption
Regular colorectal cancer screening can detect some cancers early and can also identify and allow removal of precancerous polyps
People with increased risk may need an individualized screening plan based on their medical and family history
Prevention Guidance
Risk may be reduced by avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and limiting excessive alcohol consumption. Regular colorectal cancer screening can detect some cancers early and can also identify and allow removal of precancerous polyps. People with increased risk may need an individualized screening plan based on their medical and family history.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Protein Rich Foods
Support healing and recovery.
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Vegetables
Support nutritional status.
Whole Grains
Provide energy and fiber.
Foods to Avoid
Processed Meat
May increase cancer risk.
Alcohol
May negatively affect recovery.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
Rectal cancer develops in the rectum.
Bleeding, bowel changes, and abdominal discomfort may occur.
Colonoscopy, biopsy, and imaging are used.
Yes, surgery and cancer therapies are commonly used.
Yes, early diagnosis improves treatment success.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.