Rectal cancer occurs when tumors form in the lining of the large intestine. It is common in both men and women. Because there may be no symptoms at first, it is important to have screenings often; including colonoscopy and tests for blood in the stool. The cause of rectal cancer is unknown, but the risk of developing it increases as one gets older. Family history of the disease is also a major risk factor.
Symptoms
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Blood in stool
- Frequent gas pains or cramps
- Often feeling full or bloated
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Treatments
- surgery
- chemotherapy
- radiation
Risk Factors
- 50 years or older
- Have colorectal polyps
- family history of colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
- poor diet
- smoking
Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition
department
Colon and Rectal Surgery
BMC's colorectal surgeons offer cutting-edge surgical treatments for conditions that affect the colon, rectum, and anus, in coordinating with other specialists.
department
Gastrointestinal Cancer Program
Our expert team treats all cancers of the gastrointestinal system, as well as pancreatic and liver cancers, with surgery, chemotherapy, and more.
department
Radiation Oncology
The Department of Radiation Oncology at Boston Medical Center is committed to providing expert, compassionate care in a state-of-the-art facility. Our team of skilled radiation on…