Having hemorrhoids is a risk factor for cancer that starts in the colon or rectum. However, there is no evidence that hemorrhoids can cause cancer.
Hemorrhoids, or “piles,” are swollen veins that develop in the skin within the rectum or around the anus. These swollen veins may be palpable and may appear as a lump. People with hemorrhoids tend to think as follows.
Because hemorrhoids can affect the rectum, some people may be concerned about a link to colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer begins in cells of the colon or rectum but can spread to other locations.
This article explores the relationship between hemorrhoids and cancer. Learn about the common symptoms of hemorrhoids, when you should see a doctor, and what it takes to make a diagnosis.
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The study examined the medical records of thousands of people over a 10-year period. After analyzing the data, the authors found that having hemorrhoids increased the likelihood of colorectal cancer by 2.39 times. This effect was independent of age, gender, and overall health.
The study also found that the most common sites of colorectal cancer in people with hemorrhoids were the rectum and sigmoid colon. The rectum connects the colon and anus. The sigmoid colon is the part of the colon that connects to the rectum.
Scientists don’t know what explains this association. The presence of hemorrhoids may contribute to the cause of colorectal cancer. Alternatively, a third, unknown factor may increase the likelihood of hemorrhoids or cancer.
Learn more about hemorrhoids.
Both colorectal cancer and hemorrhoids may have no symptoms. However, these conditions can cause similar symptoms.
hemorrhoid symptoms
according to
- itching, burning, or pain
- Bleeding, which may appear as blood in the stool
- escape
- mucus secretion
- swelling
- Perianal hygiene problems
- Feeling like you are sitting on a foreign object
- feeling of fullness
- urge to defecate
- diarrhea
- constipation
Symptoms of colorectal cancer
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common symptoms
Hemorrhoids and colorectal cancer have the following symptoms in common:
- blood in stool
- diarrhea
- constipation
- pain
Learn how to tell the difference between hemorrhoids and cancer.
People with symptoms of hemorrhoids or colorectal cancer should see a doctor.
If hemorrhoids are diagnosed and treated early, symptoms can be alleviated quickly.
Diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer in its early stages may also improve the outlook for people with colorectal cancer.
Learn about what the future holds for people with colorectal cancer.
by
Doctors may use several tests to diagnose colorectal cancer.of
Imaging tests are also important in determining the extent of cancer.
Learn more about colorectal cancer.
Colorectal cancer begins in the cells of the colon or rectum. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur in the rectum or colon. There are some important connections between them.
Studies have shown that people with hemorrhoids have a significantly higher risk of colorectal cancer than people without hemorrhoids. This increased risk exists regardless of age, gender, and overall health.
Hemorrhoids and colorectal cancer have some symptoms in common. These include bloody stools, constipation, and diarrhea. People with either condition may also experience pain around the anus or abdomen.
Scientists do not fully understand the link between these conditions. However, there is no direct evidence that hemorrhoids cause cancer.