Colorectal cancer occurs when abnormal cells form tumors in normal tissues of the intestines and digestive system. The exact type of “colon” or “rectal” cancer depends on where the abnormal cells first began and how fast they grew and spread. The main difference between these two cancers is where the tumor first forms — in the rectum or in the rest of the colon.
Anal Cancer
Know More: Anal Cancer
Trustworthy information, straight from the source. Education is the first step in an empowering healthcare plan. Learn more about anal cancer, from prevention to diagnosis and treatment.
Condition Overview
What is anal (colorectal) cancer?
Anal, or colorectal, cancer starts in the large intestine (colon) or rectum.
Diagnosis & Treatment Options
What increases my risk for anal (colorectal) cancer?
- Diseases of the colon, such as polyps (small lumps of tissue) or ulcerative colitis
- A family history of colon cancer
- Foods that are high in fat, or high amounts of red meat, such as beef
- Foods that are low in fiber, or not enough fruits and vegetables
- Lack of physical activity
- Cigarette smoking or heavy alcohol use
- Medical conditions such as diabetes or obesity
- Exposure to chemicals, such as asbestos
What are the signs and symptoms of anal (colorectal) cancer?
- Bloody or black bowel movements
- Abdominal pain or cramps, or a feeling of fullness
- Frequent fatigue or weakness
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Rectal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
How is anal (colorectal) cancer diagnosed?
- A bowel movement sample: This may be tested for blood.
- An ultrasound or CT: This may show where the tumor is located, or if the cancer has spread. You may be given contrast liquid to help the tumor show up better. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast liquid.
- A barium enema: This is an X-ray of the colon. A tube is put into your anus, and a liquid called barium is put through the tube. Barium is used so that healthcare providers can see your colon better on the X-ray.
- A colonoscopy: This is a test that is done to look at your colon. A tube with a light on the end will be put into your anus, and then moved forward into your colon. Your healthcare provider may take tissue samples during the colonoscopy to be tested for cancer.
How is anal (colorectal) cancer treated?
- Surgery: Surgery may be needed to remove part of your colon, rectum, or lymph nodes. This may help stop the cancer from spreading.
- Targeted therapy: This medicine is used to target specific cancer cells and kill them.
- Chemotherapy (chemo): This medicine is used to kill cancer cells. Chemo may be used to shrink the tumor or lymph nodes before surgery. Chemo may also be used after surgery to decrease the risk that cancer will come back.
- Radiation therapy: This is used to kill cancer cells with X-rays or gamma rays. Radiation may be given either before or after surgery to kill cancer cells. It may be given alone or with chemotherapy.
Preparing for Care
What can you do to prevent or manage anal (colorectal) cancer?
- Get screened as directed. Your healthcare provider may want you to have a yearly colonoscopy to check for colorectal cancer. Screening is recommended for all men and women older than 45 to 50 years. You may need to get screened earlier if you have colon disease or a family history of colorectal cancer.
- Do not smoke. Nicotine can damage blood vessels and make it more difficult to manage your colorectal cancer. Smoking also increases your risk for new or returning cancer and delays healing after treatment. Do not use e-cigarettes or smokeless tobacco in place of cigarettes or to help you quit. They still contain nicotine. Ask your healthcare provider for information if you currently smoke and need help quitting.
- Limit or do not drink alcohol as directed. Men should limit alcohol to two drinks per day. Women should limit alcohol to one drink per day. A drink of alcohol is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of liquor.
- Drink liquids as directed. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you. If you have nausea or diarrhea from cancer treatment, extra liquids may help decrease your risk for dehydration.
- Eat healthy foods. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. You may need to change what you eat during treatment. Do not eat foods or drink liquids that cause gas, such as cabbage, beans, onions, or soda. A dietitian may help to plan the best meals and snacks for you.
- Exercise as directed. Ask about the best exercise plan for you. Exercise may improve your energy levels and appetite.
Call 911 for any of the following:
- Your arm or leg feels warm, tender, and painful. It may look swollen and red.
- You have chest pain when you take a deep breath or cough.
- You suddenly feel lightheaded and short of breath.
- You cough up blood.
When should you contact your healthcare provider?
- You have a fever.
- You cannot control your diarrhea or constipation.
- You vomit multiple times and cannot keep any food or liquids down.
- Your pain is worse or does not go away after you take your pain medicine.
- You see blood in your bowel movements.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.