Prevention, diagnosis and treatment are at the core of rectal cancer care at the OSUCCC – James. There are some risk factors that you can influence if you’re at an increased likelihood of developing rectal cancer. Therefore, it’s important to see your doctor to fully understand any preventive efforts you should take to lessen the chance.
What to know about screening for rectal cancer
There’s a lot to know about when to screen — and who should be screened — for rectal cancer. Screening can remove polyps before they become cancer and can help detect cancer at its early stages, thus increasing the chances for successful treatment and optimal outcomes.
People who do not exhibit symptoms and aren’t at increased risk of rectal cancer should be screened starting at age 45. Those with symptoms or other inherent risk factors such as family history of colorectal cancer, known hereditary cancer syndromes or inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis) should discuss with their doctor about starting screening earlier.
Risk factors related to rectal cancer
Risk factors include anything that can increase the likelihood of developing rectal cancer.
For adults, these factors can include:
- Being age 45 or older: Screening is recommended for rectal cancer starting at age 45 for those who don’t have symptoms or a family history of rectal or colon cancers.
- A history of colorectal adenomas: Adenomas are noncancerous tumors that develop in the wall of the colon or rectum. A screening can determine if adenomas are present and should be removed. People who have a history of colorectal adenomas are at increased risk of developing rectal cancer.
- History of inflammatory bowel disease or IBD (Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis): These conditions are associated with a higher risk of developing rectal cancer. The time to start screening and the interval of screening tests is determined by how long IBD has been present and the disease’s severity. If you have inflammatory bowel disease, consult with your doctor about when to start rectal cancer screening.
- Familial history of colon or rectal cancer: If a close relative has a history of colon or rectal cancer, you’re at a higher risk of rectal cancer yourself. Screening is recommended to start 10 years earlier than the youngest age at which colorectal cancer was detected in the family. For example, if your father had colon or rectal cancer at age 45, then you should get your first colonoscopy at age 35.
- History of other cancers: If you or your family members have had cancer in other organs such as the uterus, ovaries, stomach, small bowel, bladder, breast or pancreas, you may be predisposed to developing colorectal cancer. These types of cancers can sometimes be associated with a hereditary syndrome and you should discuss possible genetic testing or when to start screening with your doctor.
If you have any of the above risk factors, you should discuss them with a colorectal cancer expert at the OSUCCC – James.
Can rectal cancer be prevented?
Our team of rectal cancer researchers and doctors is often asked, “What can I do to prevent rectal cancer?” While it isn’t fully understood whether certain lifestyle habits can prevent rectal cancer, there are changes that you can make to decrease your chances.
It’s important to remember that making healthier choices isn’t a guarantee of preventing rectal cancer, but research has shown that the following factors can help reduce your risk of developing it:
Manage your weight
The rectal cancer experts at the OSUCCC – James recommend maintaining a healthy body weight to reduce the risk of developing rectal cancer. Those who are overweight or obese carry a higher risk of rectal cancer.
Maintain a healthy diet
As with many commonly diagnosed diseases, diet may be a contributing factor to rectal cancer. Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber from fruits, vegetables and whole grains may help. Adults who regularly consume foods high in artificial additives and saturated fats may be at a higher risk of developing rectal cancer than those who don’t.
Exercise on a regular basis
Diet and exercise are equally important. Moving your body for 20-30 minutes per day has significant health benefits and can also help strengthen your defense against disease, including rectal cancer.
Quit smoking tobacco
Tobacco smokers have higher incidences of rectal cancer diagnoses than those who don’t. Quitting smoking has significant health benefits and can lower your risk of developing rectal cancer.
Limit consumption of alcohol
Excess consumption of alcohol has been linked to cancer in some adults. Three or more alcoholic drinks per day can increase your risk of developing rectal cancer. Limiting consumption is one way you can help prevent the development of certain cancers.
If you have received a rectal cancer diagnosis, have questions about symptoms or want to speak with one of our rectal cancer specialists, the team at the OSUCCC – James is here to help. To make a confidential appointment, you can reach The James line toll free at 800-293-5066 (weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
Related Resources
Rectal Cancer Screening and Diagnosis
Gastrointestinal Cancer Clinical Research
Colorectal Cancer Rates on the Rise Among Younger Patients