There are many treatments for rectal cancer. The most common is surgery, which is used to remove the cancerous portion of the bowel. Patients with stage 0 and I disease can undergo this surgery. Patients with larger tumors, however, must undergo resection and anastomosis. They may need a colostomy if the bowel ends cannot be reconnected. MSK doctors have pioneered nonoperative treatment for rectal cancer.
The five-year survival rate for rectal cancer is based on the number of people who survive the disease. The average survival rate for the five-year period is 67 percent for all stages combined. However, this information is from 2010 and is not necessarily indicative of current survival rates. If you are diagnosed with rectal cancer, you should discuss any financial issues you’re facing with your healthcare team. These issues can be addressed with proper counseling and support.
The symptoms of rectal cancer can range from no symptoms at all to bleeding. The most common symptom is rectal bleeding, which may be accompanied by a change in bowel habits. Other common symptoms include blood in the stools, pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue. Despite the low-level signs and symptoms, rectal cancer should be treated early to reduce the chance of recurrence.
Early detection of rectal cancer requires a careful history and a physical examination. Patients should be screened for DNA mismatch repair, which is present in as much as 13% of sporadic cases. Screening for rectal cancer is essential for identifying cancers in their early stages, which can lead to early death. Some polyp tests may even be able to prevent the development of cancer. While the symptoms of rectal cancer can vary, screening is still the best way to detect it.
While the risk for rectal cancer increases with age, most people develop it after age 50. Genetic factors, such as having a family history of colorectal cancer or Crohn’s disease, as well as an individual’s lifestyle, can also increase the risk of developing the disease. In fact, if detected early, rectal cancer is often curable. If detected, this condition is curable, and treatment is often quite effective.
Although rectal cancer is usually contained in the rectum, it can spread to other organs. Ultimately, rectal cancer can spread to the lungs or liver. The cause of rectal cancer is unknown, though some researchers believe genetics play a role in some cases. Genetics can also be a factor, and genetic tests may reveal that the disease runs in families. Nevertheless, there are several treatments for rectal cancer that are similar to colon cancer.
Colorectal cancer screening is the most important step in reducing your risk. Getting screened for the disease can identify any precancerous polyps that could grow into rectal cancer. Screenings should begin around age 45, although younger people are particularly at risk. People with risk factors should have more frequent screenings. While colorectal cancer screening is effective in reducing the risk of the disease, it can also help detect early signs.
