Cancer

Fortunately, colorectal cancer is less common than hemorrhoidal disease. Nevertheless, it is the fourth most common cancer worldwide (World Health Organization 2008). According to data from the American Cancer Society, 148,810 new cases of colorectal cancer and 49,960 deaths from colorectal cancer were expected in the USA in 2008. Overall, 91 percent of new cases and 94 percent of deaths occur in individuals 50 and older.

The main symptoms of bowel cancer include discharge of blood and changes in stool behavior, such as a change from constipation or diarrhea. Abdominal pain and weight loss usually occur late. Unfortunately, all these symptoms can also occur with other anorectal diseases.

In very rare cases, other types of cancer may cause anal symptoms. Anal carcinomas account for about one to two percent of gastrointestinal tumors. They arise from the cells that line the anal margin or the anal canal up to the transition to the rectal mucous membrane. Symptoms include a foreign body sensation, pain in the anus or vaginal discharge, changes in bowel behavior, increased straining at stool and lymph node swelling around the anus or in the groin. Moreover, skin cancers may also occur in the perianal skin. Even malignant melanomas (black skin cancer) cannot be excluded in the anal area, although these tumors are much more common in areas of skin that are exposed to sun.

Many cancers are associated with an underlying genetic predisposition. If a family member has suffered from cancer, you should inform your doctor accordingly.

Even if it costs you some effort: don’t be afraid to check with your doctor. Colon and anal cancers are usually highly treatable, if caught early. And all the better if it turns out the cause is benign.