Rectal colon cancer, otherwise known as colorectal cancer, is a form of cancer that essentially develops in the lining, or the mucosa, of the rectum and colon. In essence, it would be a cancer of the large intestines, since the colon and the rectum ultimately make up this portion of the digestive system. As with any form of cancer, colorectal cancer develops during cell division when abnormal cells can form. These mutated cells generally multiply at a faster rate than healthy cells, which can lead to the formation of a tumor.
Causes
Much like other forms of cancer, the actual cause of colorectal cancer is relatively unknown, but there are a number of factors that can increase your chances of developing this disease. According to the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center, the most predominant factor is the presence of other diseases, illnesses or conditions. While the existence of a colon polyp, which is ultimately a bump in the lining of the colon, doesn't necessarily ensure you will develop rectal colon cancer, it is usually the way the disease will begin. Also, people who have a history of an inflammation of the colon, as would be the case in Crohn's disease, will also possess a heightened risk. Other cancers can also increase the likelihood of developing rectal colon cancer, including pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer and breast cancer.
Other Factors
Besides the incidence of other diseases and conditions, a person's chances of developing colorectal cancer will increase with a few other factors, including family history, diet and an exposure to certain chemicals. With family history, a person who has family members that have suffered from cancer, specifically colon cancer or rectal cancer, will generally have a greater risk in developing the disease, as it is partly seen as an inherited genetic trait. Diet can also play a part in a person's potential to develop this form of cancer, mostly connected to the fats or the proteins from red meat, depending on which expert you read, according to the American Cancer Society. Surprisingly, an exposure to chlorine, namely in high and prolonged doses, can increase a person's chances as well.
Symptoms
Since colorectal cancer is characterized by its relatively slow growth, there aren't usually many (if any) symptoms in the earlier stages of the disease. However, there are a few hallmarks that may indicate the presence of a tumor, including recurring constipation or diarrhea, blood in the stool, rectal bleeding, bloating, discomfort, a loss of appetite, a loss of weight and fatigue. Some patients have described a general feeling of incomplete bowel movements, meaning that you will generally feel as if there is more left after you've went to the bathroom, yet you're unable to produce any more stool.
Treatment
As with most forms of cancer, rectal colon cancer has pretty much the same treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a combination of two of these procedures. Surgery will generally involve the removal of cancerous tissue, which shouldn't come as any surprise. Chemotherapy will be used either alone or in conjunction with surgery, depending on the stage. It can be used prior to surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to eradicate any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy will rarely be done alone and usually in conjunction with either surgery or chemotherapy. It too will be used either before or after another procedure to either shrink the tumor or kill any residual cancer cells.
Expert Insight
The most effective approach to colorectal cancer is early detection, which is common with all forms of cancer. It is recommended to begin screenings when you reach the age of around 50. If you have a family history, conditions that may develop colorectal cancer and other risk factors, it is best to begin at an earlier age, usually around your 40th birthday.
Tags: colorectal cancer, colon cancer, family history, form cancer, forms cancer