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Rectal Cancer - An Overview |
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At Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) we understand the difficulties that accompany a diagnosis of rectal cancer. From the impact on your life and the lives of those around you, to the many varied treatment options available, our mission is to help guide you through the information overload, present clear information so you and your family can make informed decisions, and understand the treatment options available. We believe in your fundamental right to know about and choose from a wide array of therapy modes, to develop a comprehensive treatment plan suited to your unique needs.
Rectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States and afflicts both men and women. Although there have been cases of rectal cancer among people in their twenties and thirties, and even, rarely, in their teens, the vast majority of cases occur among people fifty years old or older. Risk factors include a family history of rectal cancer, a personal history of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, and other hereditary conditions. A diet high in fat combined with a lack of exercise can dramatically increase a person's risk. Heavy alcohol use can be a factor as well.
Signs of Rectal Cancer
Although the following signs may indicate a number of other health issues, they are commonly seen in patients with rectal cancer. If you or a loved one exhibits any of the following rectal cancer symptoms, visit your physician for a thorough physical examination:
- A change in bowel habits that lasts for more than a few days
- Blood, either bright red or very dark, in the stool
- Diarrhea, constipation, or the feeling that your bowel doesn't empty completely
- A persisting narrowing of the stools
- Persistent general abdominal discomfort, including cramping, bloating, fullness, or frequent gas pains
- Unexplained weight loss
- Constant, unexplained tiredness
- Vomiting
Rectal cancer can be detected by a number of methods, including a fecal occult blood test, a digital rectal exam, a series of x-rays of the lower gastrointestinal tract, a sigmoidoscopy, a colonoscopy, biopsies of tissue, blood tests, and additional imaging processes such as PET scans.
Being diagnosed with rectal cancer is often overwhelming, to both the person diagnosed and their family and loved ones. It is vital during this trying time to have access to information about both the disease itself and all available rectal cancer treatment options. At CTCA, your multidisciplinary team of clinicians and practitioners will help you and your family sort through the information and options to create a personalized course of therapy based upon your specific medical, nutritional, emotional, and spiritual needs.
Making a well-informed decision regarding rectal cancer treatment depends upon the disease's progression. This process, called rectal cancer staging, provides a clear picture of exactly where the cancer resides and how far it may have spread. Rectal cancer is staged using Roman numerals 0 through IV, with Stage IV being the most serious. Once your cancer has been staged, your team will work with you to develop a plan that addresses your specific needs.
Whether your rectal cancer has metastasized plays an important role in determining the course of your treatment as well. Metastatic rectal cancer occurs when rectal cancer cells break away from a tumor and spread through your body via your blood or lymph system. The liver is the most common site for metastatic rectal cancer.
Rectal Cancer Treatment
There are numerous options available for rectal cancer treatment. We at Cancer Treatment Centers of America believe in an individualized approach to therapy. Your comprehensive rectal cancer team may consist of a medical oncologist -- accompanied, if necessary, by a surgical oncologist and a radiation oncologist -- and other practitioners who specialize in complementary or alternative therapies. We use a powerful combination of traditional therapies such as surgery accompanied by innovative methods such as fractionated dose chemotherapy, complemented with treatments such as naturopathic medicine, nutritional therapy, mind-body medicine, and spiritual counseling. All rectal cancer treatment takes place under one roof, in a nurturing environment you'll likely find different from other care facilities.
Advanced rectal cancer is generally accompanied by some level of pain, either acute or chronic, or both. Pain depends on many factors, and affects each person differently. Your team will assess your level of pain and pain management, and create a plan to address your specific needs and attempt to improve your quality of life during treatment.
Choosing the Most Appropriate Rectal Cancer Treatment
At CTCA we know how important it is that you believe in your treatment plan, and realize that it's difficult to consider leaving your current doctor. However, your treatment is what's important, and it's crucial to know you are receiving the most comprehensive treatment available. If you are currently receiving rectal cancer treatment and you have concerns about your current level of care, please contact us anytime, either over the phone at 800-615-3055, via private E-mail, or Chat With Us online. Our Oncology Information Specialists are available 24 hours a day, every day. In addition, read Rectal Cancer Testimonials to learn what other patients have to say about their treatment at Cancer Treatment Centers of America. While no case is typical, and you should not expect to experience similar results, you may find other rectal cancer patients' success stories helpful in making your decision.
At Cancer Treatment Centers of America we are committed to helping people overcome cancer. You and your healing are at the center of everything we do, and inform and drive our actions. Our mission is to provide you with every option available, to be your ally in treatment, and never give up.
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