Early Signs of Rectal Cancer
Rectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the rectum, the last part of the large intestine. It is the third most common type of cancer in the United States.
In the early stages, rectal cancer may not cause any symptoms. However, as the cancer grows, it can cause a variety of symptoms, including:
- A change in bowel habits: This can include diarrhea, constipation, or a feeling that you need to have a bowel movement even after you have just had one.
- Rectal bleeding: This can be bright red blood, dark red blood, or blood mixed with stool.
- Pelvic pain: This can be a dull ache, pain that comes and goes, or sharp pain.
- A feeling of incomplete evacuation: This can feel like you still need to go to the bathroom even after you have finished.
- Unexplained weight loss: This can happen even if you are not trying to lose weight.
- Fatigue: This can be caused by the cancer itself or by anemia, which is a common side effect of cancer.
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away. Rectal cancer is most treatable when it is diagnosed early.
Here are some risk factors for rectal cancer:
- Age: The risk of rectal cancer increases with age. Most cases of rectal cancer are diagnosed in people who are 50 years of age or older.
- Family history: If you have a family history of rectal cancer, you are at an increased risk of developing the disease.
- Personal history of certain bowel diseases: People with a history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease are at an increased risk of developing rectal cancer.
- Genetic syndromes: Some genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), increase the risk of rectal cancer.
- Lifestyle factors: Smoking, a diet high in red and processed meats, and a lack of exercise can increase the risk of rectal cancer.
You can reduce your risk of rectal cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices, such as:
- Not smoking: Smoking is one of the leading causes of rectal cancer.
- Eating a healthy diet: Eat a diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in red and processed meats.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of rectal cancer.
- Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Getting regular screenings: If you are at an increased risk of rectal cancer, talk to your doctor about getting regular screenings.
Early detection and treatment of rectal cancer is essential for improving the chances of a cure. If you experience any of the symptoms of rectal cancer, see a doctor right away.