Try adjusting your type
14th October, 2009
European Survey on Standards of Care in paediatric oncology centres. J. R. Kowalczyk, M. Samardakiewicz, K. Pritchard-Jones, R. Ladenstein, S. Essiaf, E. Fitzgerald, G. Petrarulo, G. Vassal - EJC , Volume 61, pp 11-19
8th December, 2014
The purpose of this website is to provide good and clear information about the long-term effects of childhood cancer and to refer to the various late-effects outpatient clinics (LATER outpatient clinics) that exist in the Netherlands.
8th September, 2015
Cancer in young people is rare, but it is still a major health issue in Europe. Each year, more than 6,000 young people in Europe die of cancer. There are more than 300,000 European childhood cancer survivors (in 2020, they will be nearly half a million): two-thirds of them have some late side effects of treatment, that are severe and impact on the daily life of half of those affected.
Rectal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancerous) cells form in the tissues of the rectum. The rectum is the last several inches of the large intestine. It often manifests with symptoms like persistent change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding or blood in stool, persistent abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. Early diagnosis aids effective treatment.
Rectal cancer is an increasingly prevalent disease that, while serious and life-altering, can be overcome through early diagnosis, advanced treatment options, and supportive care. This comprehensive overview aims to provide in-depth knowledge about rectal cancer, its understanding, causes and risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and living with the condition.
Rectal cancer is a type of malignancy that forms in the tissues of the rectum, the last several inches of the large intestine prior to the anus. It belongs to a grouping of diseases known as colorectal cancers, which are the third most common cancer type diagnosed worldwide.
The rectum plays a critical part in digestion, storing waste until it leaves the body. Since its lining contains glands that produce mucus, it is susceptible to the growth of cancer cells. The early stages of rectal cancer often start as polyps, which, over time, can transform into cancer.
In understanding rectal cancer, certain terminologies need to be understood. Adenomas, for example, are a type of polyp that increases the risk of rectal cancer. Dysplasia refers to cells that show early signs of precancerous changes, while in situ cancers are those confined to the innermost lining of the rectum.
The exact cause of rectal cancer remains unknown; however, it likely involves changes or mutations in the DNA of rectal cells. Such changes can cause cells to continue dividing even when new cells aren’t required. These cells accumulate into a tumor and may subsequently invade adjacent structures or spread to other parts of the body.
Age, diet, excess body weight, family history of colorectal cancers, personal history of inflammatory bowel disease, and certain inherited syndromes like Lynch syndrome are notable risk factors for rectal cancer.
Certain hereditary disorders, such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and Lynch syndrome, significantly increase a person’s risk of contracting rectal cancer, suggesting a strong genetic component in its development.
Common signs include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, persistent abdominal discomfort, weakness or fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and the feeling that the bowel doesn’t empty completely.
Screenings for rectal cancer typically involve colonoscopy and biopsy. Other diagnostic tests may include a blood test, digital rectal exam, endorectal ultrasound, and imaging tests such as CT scans and MRI.
Standard treatments often involve surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. The type of treatment depends upon the cancer stage, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.
New and more efficient treatments are under constant research and development. Immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and ongoing clinical trials offer hope in advancing the overall medical landscape concerning rectal cancer treatment.
Coping with a diagnosis of rectal cancer involves emotional, physical, and social challenges. Support can be found through counseling, joining support groups, staying physically active, maintaining a healthy diet, and keeping up with regular screenings and doctor visits.
Lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, and eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can aid treatment and increase the chances of recovery.
Rectal cancer, while an often daunting diagnosis, can be effectively managed through early detection, advanced treatments, and supportive care. Individuals should prioritize regular screenings, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and forge a strong support network to combat the disease.
Early signs include changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, and persistent abdominal discomfort.
Rectal cancer is diagnosed through a series of procedures such as colonoscopy, biopsy, blood tests, and imaging tests.
Treatment options comprise surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Other emerging treatments include targeted therapy and immunotherapy.
Yes, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and abstaining from smoking can lower the risk of developing rectal cancer.
There are numerous resources including community support groups, online forums, nonprofit organizations like the American Cancer Society, and professional counseling services.
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