The rectum is the last eight to ten inches of the colon. The exact causes of rectal cancer are unknown. Warning signs of rectal cancer include changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, stools that look blackish or tar-like, very dark red or bright red blood in the stool, and abdominal pain. Other symptoms include frequent gas pains, bloating, fullness or cramps, a feeling that the bowel doesn't empty completely, stools that are narrower than usual, loss of weight for unknown reasons, and constant fatigue. Call a doctor if any symptoms last more than two weeks.
Early detection is important.
Tumors caught early have a seventy five percent or more cure rate. To help detect rectal cancer, all adults should have a rectal exam as part of their annual check-up by a doctor.