Peräsuolisyöpä

Peräsuolisyöpä, also known as rectal cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the rectum, the final section of the large intestine, terminating at the anus. It arises from the cells lining the rectal wall, often starting as a small growth called a polyp. If left untreated, these polyps can develop into cancerous tumors.

The exact causes of peräsuolisyöpä are not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified. These include older age, a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, a diet low in fiber and high in red and processed meats, obesity, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. Certain inherited genetic syndromes, like Lynch syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), also significantly increase the risk.

Symptoms can vary and may not appear until the cancer is advanced. Common signs include a change in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation, blood in the stool (which may appear bright red or dark), a feeling that the bowel does not empty completely, abdominal pain or cramping, and unexplained weight loss.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, including a digital rectal exam, and may be followed by diagnostic tests such as a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy, which allow for direct visualization of the rectum and colon and the removal of suspicious tissue for biopsy. Imaging tests like CT scans or MRIs may be used to determine the extent of the cancer.

Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer and the patient's overall health. They commonly include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments is used. Early detection through regular screening, especially for individuals with increased risk factors, is crucial for improving treatment outcomes and survival rates.