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Rectal diseases

1-minute read

The rectum is the lower part of the large intestine where the body stores faeces (‘poo’).

Rectal problems include haemorrhoids, fissures, abscesses and incontinence. Cancer can affect the rectum. Pain or bleeding are signs that need medical attention. Treatments vary widely depending on the particular problem. Follow the links below to find trusted information about rectal diseases.

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Last reviewed: April 2022

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These trusted information partners have more on this topic.

Rectal Cancer - Radiation Oncology Targeting Center

Rectal Cancer Rectal cancers are cancers that grow in the last part of the bowel, just before the anus (or back passage)

Read more on Radiation Oncology Targeting Cancer website

Bowel cancer: Overview - Cancer Council Victoria

Understand more about bowel cancer, including how common it is, risk factors, symptoms and having bowel cancer run in your family.

Read more on Cancer Council Victoria website

Early detection of bowel cancer | Cancer Council

It is crucial that bowel cancer is detected early. Read our latest information on symptoms, screening and how to reduce the risk of bowel cancer

Read more on Cancer Council Australia website

Bowel cancer | NT.GOV.AU

Prevention, detection tests, symptoms and treatment for bowel cancer.

Read more on NT Health website

Bowel cancer | Cancer Institute NSW

Bowel cancers start in the bowel or intestines

Read more on Cancer Institute NSW website

Bowel cancer screening | Cancer Council

Regular bowel cancer screening using an FOBT kit can pick up pre-cancerous polyps. Find out more about tests to help diagnose bowel cancer.

Read more on Cancer Council Australia website

Bowel cancer screening

Once you turn 50 years of age, you are eligible for a free bowel screening test in the prevention of bowel cancer. The bowel cancer screening program describes what the test involves and at what future ages you are eligible for testing.

Read more on WA Health website

Bowel cancer - Better Health Channel

Bowel cancer is highly curable if found at an early stage.

Read more on Better Health Channel website

Bowel cancer screening - Better Health Channel

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program (NBCSP) offers kits for free to Australians between the ages of 50 and 74 years of age.

Read more on Better Health Channel website

Small Bowel Cancer | Cancer Council

Find information about small bowel cancer, including facts, screening, symptoms, diagnosis, causes, prevention and treatment.

Read more on Cancer Council Australia website

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Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Rectal diseases

Need more information?

Rectal Cancer - Radiation Oncology Targeting Center

Bowel cancer: Overview - Cancer Council Victoria