Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the rectum. Health history affects the risk of developing rectal cancer. Signs of rectal cancer include a change in bowel habits or blood in the stool. Tests that examine the rectum and colon are used to diagnose rectal cancer. Rectal cancer affects both men and women, though men are slightly more likely to develop the disease. During Stage I, rectal cancer has grown into the deep layers of the rectal wall but has not spread to nearby areas. People with Stage I rectal cancer may not experience any warning signs or symptoms. That’s why routine colonoscopy screenings are so important. Most cases of rectal cancer are diagnosed during routine screenings. In some instances, your provider may suspect the disease based on your symptoms.