DocTalk Podcast: Rectal Cancer with Dr. Steven Wexner

Описание: In this episode of MedStar Health Doc Talk, host Ryan Miller welcomes Dr. Stephen Wexner, physician executive director and system chief of colorectal surgery at MedStar Health, for a comprehensive discussion on rectal cancer. With nearly four decades of experience, Dr. Wexner explains why screening is critical—even for younger patients—and outlines common symptoms such as rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, and unexplained weight loss. He clarifies the differences between rectal, colon, and anal cancers, emphasizing how anatomy influences diagnosis, treatment options, and outcomes, while reinforcing that colorectal cancer is often preventable through early detection and removal of precancerous polyps.

The conversation also highlights major advances in rectal cancer care, including minimally invasive surgery, chemotherapy and radiation strategies that can sometimes eliminate the need for surgery, and the growing use of multidisciplinary, patient-centered decision-making.

Dr. Wexner shares how national accreditation programs and team-based care improve quality of life and reduce the need for permanent colostomies, while giving patients more control over their treatment choices. The episode highlights the importance of healthy lifestyles, family history awareness, and timely screening, underscoring MedStar Health’s commitment to comprehensive, coordinated cancer care.

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For more information on Dr. Wexner, go to https://www.medstarhealth.org/doctors... , or to make an appointment, call 202-295-0560. 

For interviews with Dr. Wexner, or for more information about this podcast, contact MedStar Georgetown University Hospital Manager Media Relations, [email protected].