What is rectum cancer?

Rectal cancer is a cancer that occurs in the rectum, which is the last part of your large intestine, just before the anus. According to the best oncologist in Kolkata, when abnormal cells in the rectum begin to grow and divide uncontrollably it forms a tumor and eventually results in rectal cancer. Over time, cancer can spread to the nearby lymph nodes and other organs, like the liver and lungs.

Rectal cancer can cause a range of symptoms, including :

1. Changes in bowel movements 2. Blood in the stool 3. Abdominal pain 4 . Fatigue 5. Unintentional weight loss 6. Anaemia

Several factors have been associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. These factors have been listed below by a rectal cancer doctor in Kolkata.

1. Age : The risk of developing rectal cancer increases with age, particularly after the age of 50. 2. Family history : Having a family history of colon or rectal cancer increases your risk of developing the disease. 3. Personal history of colon cancer : If you have had colon cancer in the past, you may be at increased risk of developing rectal cancer. 4. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) : Chronic inflammation of the colon, like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, can raise the risk of developing rectal cancer. 5. Diet : A diet high in red meat, processed meats and low in fibre, fruits, and vegetables, has been associated with an increased risk of developing rectal cancer. 6. Sedentary lifestyle : Lack of physical activity has been linked to an increased risk of developing rectal cancer. 7. Smoking and alcohol : Smoking and heavy alcohol use have been associated with a higher risk of developing rectal cancer.

Listed below are the treatment options discussed by a medical oncologist in Kolkata :

1. Chemotherapy : It uses drugs to kill cancerous cells. It may be used before or after surgery or in combination with radiation therapy. 2. Radiation therapy : It uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used prior to surgery to shrink the tumour or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. 3. Targeted therapy : It is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to target specific genes or proteins that help cancer cells to grow and survive. 4. Immunotherapy : It is a type of cancer treatment that helps your immune system to fight against cancer cells. It can be used to treat advanced cases of rectal cancer. 5. Surgery : Surgery is often the main treatment for rectal cancer. The aim of surgery is to remove the cancerous tissue and nearby lymph nodes. Based on the size and location of your tumour, the surgery may involve removing part of the rectum or the entire rectum, as well as surrounding tissues and organs.