The main factors that increase the risk of rectal cancer are as follows:
1. Dietary errors
There is a strong link between diet and rectal cancer.
Red meat: Excessive consumption of beef and mutton increases the risk of cancer.
Processed meat: Preservatives in bacon, sausage, etc. can damage the cells in the intestines.
Lack of fiber: A diet low in vegetables and fruits causes constipation and causes toxins to stay in the intestines for a longer time.
2. Lifestyle and obesity
A sedentary lifestyle and being overweight cause hormonal changes. This can lead to excessive growth of cells in the intestines. This disease is more common in people who do not exercise.
3. Genetics
If someone in your family has had colon or rectal cancer, you are more likely to get it. Genetic changes such as Lynch Syndrome can cause this.
4. Smoking and alcohol
In long-term smokers, cancer-causing chemicals enter the intestines through the bloodstream. Similarly, excessive alcohol consumption destroys the body’s antioxidants and changes cells.
5. Chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Diseases such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, which last for many years, can damage the cells in the intestinal wall. This can later turn into cancer.
6. Polyps
Polyps are small fleshy growths that form inside the rectum. Although they are not initially cancerous, certain types of polyps can turn into cancer if left untreated for many years.
Symptoms of rectal cancer:
Changes in bowel habits (persistent diarrhea or constipation).
Blood in the stool.
A feeling of having to go again after having a bowel movement.
Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
