Rectal cancer, a type of colorectal cancer, affects the last several inches of the large intestine known as the rectum. At Adjah Cancer Support Ghana, we want to provide clear, compassionate information about treatment options to support patients and their families through their cancer journey.

What Is Rectal Cancer?

Rectal cancer develops when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the rectum lining. Symptoms can include changes in bowel habits, blood in stool, abdominal discomfort, and unexplained weight loss. Early diagnosis greatly improves treatment success.

Treatment Options for Rectal Cancer

Treatment depends on the cancer stage, location, and the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include:

• Surgery
  Surgery is often the primary treatment. The goal is to remove the tumor and some surrounding tissue to prevent cancer spread. Types of surgery include local excision and more extensive procedures like low anterior resection or abdominoperineal resection.

• Radiation Therapy
  Radiation uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells. It may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink tumors or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate remaining cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy
  Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. It may be combined with radiation therapy or used after surgery to reduce recurrence risk.

• Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
  For some patients, newer treatments that target specific cancer cell features or boost the immune system are options, often in advanced cases.

Supportive Care and Rehabilitation

Treatment can be physically and emotionally challenging. Supportive care includes pain management, nutritional support, counseling, and physical therapy to help patients recover and maintain quality of life.

Early Detection Improves Outcomes

Regular screening and prompt evaluation of symptoms increase chances for successful treatment. If you experience persistent rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain, see a healthcare professional immediately.

How Adjah Cancer Support Ghana Helps

We provide education, patient support, and advocacy to improve access to quality cancer care in Ghana. Through awareness programs, counseling, and partnerships with healthcare providers, we strive to ensure no one faces rectal cancer alone.

If you or a loved one is battling rectal cancer, know that help and hope are available. Together, we can fight cancer and support healing.