12 Mar Being Exposed to This Infection Increases Risk for Anal Cancer. Here’s What to Know

Anal cancer is a type of cancer that develops around the anus or in the skin near its opening. The American Cancer Society noted that the disease is highly treatable and curable, reporting a 5-year relative survival rate based on how far the cancer has spread.  

If the cancer is only found in the anal area, there is an 85% survival rate; around 70% if it has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes; and approximately 36% if it has spread to distant organs such as the liver or lungs.  

It can start without any noticeable symptoms, but when symptoms start to appear, they may include:  

• Blood in stool  

• Anus or rectum bleeding  

• Pain in the anus area  

• A lump or mass in the anal canal  

• Bowel habits changes, including the appearance of stool  

• Feeling of needing to go to the bathroom even after going to the bathroom  

Experiencing these symptoms does not automatically mean that you have anal cancer, but it is important to see your doctor and discuss the symptoms and changes you have been observing.  

What Causes Anal Cancer?  

Cancer usually occurs when there is an abnormal cell growth in the organ, which forms a mass called a tumor. Tumors can be invasive and destroy healthy tissues.   

With anal cancer, you get a higher risk of the disease if you have been exposed to certain infections, such as the human papillomavirus (HPV). The infection causes changes in the cells that can cause certain types of cancer, including cervical cancer and anal cancer.  

Other risk factors include:  

• Having unprotected and receptive anal sex  

• Increased number of sexual partners  

• Smoking cigarettes  

• Weakened immune system, including those who have been diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)  

• History of sexually transmitted diseases  

• History of other types of cancer, such as cervical, vulval, and vaginal cancer  

You can take steps to reduce your risk by:  

• Practicing safe sex  

• Getting tested for sexually transmitted diseases  

• Getting the HPV vaccine  

• Quitting smoking   

Healthcare providers do not usually test for anal cancer, but if you have a high risk of getting the illness, you might be recommended to get an anal pap test and HPV screenings.  

What Are the Treatment Options?  

The treatment you will be given will be based on the stage of the cancer and your overall health status.  

Healthcare professionals might use a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy to kill cancerous cells. There are times when surgery will be the chosen treatment route, especially when chemotherapy and radiation therapy have not fully removed the cancer.  

During this time, it is important that you stay close to your loved ones for support. Do not hesitate to ask questions to your healthcare provider to understand more about your condition.