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Rectum

By , About.com Guide

Updated January 23, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

Definition: The last 6 to 8 inches of the large intestine that serves as a storage site for waste before it exits the body through the anus.

Like other parts of the body, the rectum is vulnerable to diseases and conditions, like polyps and rectal cancer. Fortunately, there are screening tools, like the colonoscopy that allow the doctor to screen for colorectal cancer.

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