Rectal cancer

Rectal cancer: causes, symptoms and diagnosis

Over the past 20 years, the incidence of colorectal cancer has increased significantly and the disease has become a major public health problem. It is interesting to note that higher incidence rates are observed in more developed countries such as the USA, Canada, Israel and Australia, while India, China, Latin America and Central Asia have lower rates. However, Japan is an exception because, despite its high level of development and capitalism, colorectal cancer is extremely rare there.

Rectal cancer is a malignant tumor that develops from cells lining the inside of the rectum. The tumor can grow into the intestinal wall or protrude into its lumen. There are approximately 510,000 new cases of colon cancer worldwide each year, and rectal cancer accounts for approximately 30-40% of the total number of cases.

The causes of colorectal cancer are still not fully understood. However, risk factors have been identified that may contribute to the development of this disease. One of these factors is dietary habits. Consumption of large amounts of meat and animal fats, as well as a lack of plant fiber, can increase the risk of disease. High-calorie, easily digestible foods can slow down the movement of contents through the intestines, resulting in prolonged exposure of the rectal wall to tumor-promoting substances. It is interesting to note that among vegetarians, colorectal cancer is almost never found.

In addition, certain occupations are associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. For example, workers exposed to asbestos are at increased risk of illness. Also, long-term inflammatory diseases and polyps in the rectum can become a prerequisite for the development of cancer. Some studies have linked anal sex and human papillomavirus infection to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, especially in sexually active men infected with the virus.

Rectal cancer develops relatively slowly. The tumor first grows up and down around the rectum. Signs and symptoms of rectal cancer may include:

1. Change in stool pattern: blood in the stool, stool turning black (melena), or bright red blood appearing on the surface of the stool.
2. Changes in stool frequency and consistency: diarrhea, constipation, or change in typical bowel movements.
3. Weight loss for no apparent reason.
4. Pain in the abdomen or rectal area.
5. A feeling of incomplete emptying of the bowel after defecation.
6. An increased feeling of the need to defecate.
7. Fatigue and weakness.

If you have these symptoms or notice changes in your bowel movements, it is recommended that you see your doctor for further evaluation and diagnosis.

Diagnosis of colorectal cancer involves various methods, including:

1. Rectal examination: The doctor evaluates the rectum, internal opening of the anus and surrounding tissues using his fingers and a special simple instrument (rectoscope).
2. Colonoscopy: This procedure is performed to visually examine the entire colon and rectum. During a colonoscopy, polyps can be removed and a biopsy (tissue sample) taken for further analysis.
3. Rectosigmoidoscopy: This is a more limited test that allows the doctor to view the rectum and lower part of the colon.
4. Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): These techniques can be used to evaluate the spread of cancer and determine whether there are metastases in other organs.
5. Biopsy: If colorectal cancer is suspected, a biopsy may be taken for further analysis under a microscope.

Once a diagnosis of rectal cancer is confirmed, the doctor will recommend further treatment strategies, which may include surgical removal of the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of different methods depending on the stage and characteristics of the cancer. It is important to receive timely and adequate treatment to achieve the best results.