Rectal cancer occurs when tumors form in the lining of the large intestine. It is common in both men and women. Because there may be no symptoms at first, it is important to have screenings often; including colonoscopy and tests for blood in the stool. The cause of rectal cancer is unknown, but the risk of developing it increases as one gets older. Family history of the disease is also a major risk factor.

## Symptoms

- Diarrhea or constipation
- Blood in stool
- Frequent gas pains or cramps
- Often feeling full or bloated
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Vomiting

## Treatments

- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation

## Risk Factors

- 50 years or older
- Have colorectal polyps
- Family history of colorectal cancer, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease
- Poor diet
- Smoking



 

   ### Colorectal Cancer is Rising in Younger Adults—Know the Signs and Get Screened

In recent years, colorectal cancer rates are rising, particularly in people younger than 50. Here, BMC’s Jennifer Davids, MD, chief of colon and rectal surgery, answers common questions about colorectal cancer, symptoms to watch for, and the importance of screening to help get more people —especially younger people — talking about their colon health.



 [Learn More About Colon Cancer From Dr. Davids](/news/colorectal-cancer-rising-younger-adults-know-signs-and-get-screened) 

 

 

 

      ![](https://assets.bmc.org/transform/8e54c455-5df5-46cf-93f4-9435c1b90c62/Jennifer-Davids_170?io=transform:fill,&format=webp)  

 

 

 ## Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

  department###  [Colon and Rectal Surgery](/departments/colon-and-rectal-surgery) 

 BMC’s colorectal surgeons offer cutting-edge surgical treatments for conditions that affect the colon, rectum, and anus, in coordinating with other specialists. 

 

 

  department###  [Gastrointestinal Cancer Program](/departments/cancer-center/gastrointestinal-cancer-program) 

 A program within the Cancer Center providing diagnosis and treatment for cancers of the gastrointestinal system, including stomach, colon, and esophageal cancers, with coordinated… 

 

 

  department###  [Radiation Oncology](/departments/radiation-oncology) 

 An oncology department using advanced radiation therapy to treat cancer, with personalized planning and care to target tumors while protecting surrounding healthy tissue.