How do medications treat stage 2 rectal cancer?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

After surgery your doctor may recommend medication. Usually a combination of chemotherapy and radiation is used. Chemotherapy medications and x-rays given during radiation treatment kill any cancer cells in your body that could not be removed during surgery and prevent cancer from spreading or recurring.

Continue Learning about Stage 2 Rectal Cancer

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Surgery is necessary for treatment of rectal cancer. Many people can fully recover from stage 2 rect...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Several diagnostic tests diagnose rectal cancer. Sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are exams in which yo...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Stage 2 is the third stage of rectal cancer. While the chances of recovery from rectal cancer decrea...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

If you experience any symptoms of rectal cancer, tell your doctor immediately. The recovery rate of ...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Stage 2 Rectal Cancer

At stage 2, rectal (also called colorectal) cancer has grown through the inner lining of the rectum, muscles in the rectal wall, and in some cases the outer wall of the rectum. Both diarrhea and constipation that do not go away can signal rectal cancer. Your risk for rectal cancer can stem from genetics or a previous medical condition, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. Your doctor will likely recommend a colectomy to remove the part of the rectum that contains the cancer.

Learn More