What is anal cancer?
Cancer describes a set of diseases in which normal cells in the body, through a series of genetic changes, lose the ability to control their growth. As cancers grow, they invade the tissues around them (local invasion). They may also spread to other locations in the body via the blood vessels or lymphatic channels where they may implant and grow (metastases).
Who is at risk?
Anal cancer is commonly associated with the human papilloma virus (HPV). This virus causes warts in and around the anus and on the cervix in women.
Age – Most people with anal cancer are over 50 years old.
Anal sex – Persons who participate in anal sex are at an increased risk.
Smoking – Harmful chemicals from smoking increase the risk of most cancers including anal cancer.
Chronic local inflammation – People with long-standing anal fistulas or open wounds are at a slightly higher risk.
What are the symptoms of anal cancer?
- Bleeding from the rectum or anus
- The feeling of a lump or mass at the anal opening
- Pain in the anal area
- Persistent or recurrent itching
- Change in bowel habits (having more or fewer bowel movements) or increased straining during a bowel movement
- Narrowing of the stools
- Discharge (mucous or pus) from the anus
- Swollen lymph nodes (glands) in the anal or groin areas.
How is anal cancer diagnosed?
An abnormal anal pap smear or the presence of symptoms should lead to examination of the anal canal.
How are anal cancers treated?
Surgery – an operation to remove the cancer
Radiation therapy – high-dose x-rays to kill cancer cells, and
Chemotherapy – giving drugs to kill cancer cells.
What happens after treatment for anal cancer?
Follow-up care to assess the results of treatment and to check for recurrence is very important. Most anal carcinomas are effectively treated. In addition, many tumors that recur may be successfully treated if they are caught early. A careful examination by an experienced physician at regular intervals is the most important method of follow-up. Additional studies may be recommended. You should report any symptoms or problems to your doctor right away.
