The most common case of rectal cancer happens when cancer cells grow on the lining of the rectal wall and lymph nodes. Rectal cancer starts in the rectum but can easily move to other body parts. If rectal cancer is not caught early enough, it can possibly spread up the colon, making the prognosis more serious as colorectal cancer.

There are several factors that cause rectal cancer. The most dominant causes are genetics and diet/lifestyle. A family history or colon, rectal, or colorectal cancer is a warning sign for others in the family. If there is colon or rectal cancer in your family history, it is best to be screened regularly before the age of fifty. Other factors, such as a diet in meat and animal products, smoking, and an age over fifty are also possible culprits for rectal cancer.

The best way to avoid rectal cancer is to be screened regularly. If rectal cancer is found, treatment should be discussed with a specialist and started right away.