BMC’s Yawkey building doors are now closed as an entrance as part of our ongoing efforts to enhance our campus and provide you with the best clinical care.

All patients and visitors on our main campus must enter our hospital via Shapiro, Menino, or Moakley buildings, where they will be greeted by team members at a new centralized check-in desk before continuing to the hospital. We are excited to welcome you and appreciate your patience as we improve our facilities.

Rectal Cancer

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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

Departments and Programs Who Treat This Condition

department

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.
Colon and Rectal Surgery
department

Gastrointestinal Cancer Program

At the Gastrointestinal Cancer Program, our team of experts treat a wide range of cancers of the gastrointestinal system, as well as pancreatic and liver cancers. Whether you need…
Gastrointestinal Cancer Program