Common problems in this area include itching and hemorrhoids, but rarely cancer may develop in the anal canal. There are actually four types of tissue in the anal canal, which can give rise to different cancers. If someone develops rectal cancer, it is critical to get prompt diagnosis and proper treatment. Getting the best treatment can make the difference between having an "sphincter sparing" operation, where the anus is preserved, or having to wear a colostomy bag to drain stool from the abdomen. Moreover, proper treatment can make the difference between life and death. Understanding your options will give you the peace-of-mind of knowing you've done everything possible to ensure a successful outcome for yourself or a loved one. The Cancer Group Institute's book explains, in plain English, the definition, types, risk factors, frequency, symptoms, evaluation, historical and latest effective treatments for rectal cancer. We describe surgery, radiation and chemotherapy along with "anal sparing" procedures. We cover expected side-effects and results. While we don't promise a cure, we tell you everything you must know to help make the right choices today in dealing with an rectal cancer problem. Some of the Department Heads, Hospitals and Residents using our materials are Mayo Clinic, Harvard University, Columbia, NYU, UCLA, Johns Hopkins, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando, Tift Regional Cancer Center, Instituto Oncologia Moderna, Puerto Rico plus many others.