In general, cancer has become one of the most serious health issues among people. Cancer is the condition when the cells in the body begin to grow and their growth becomes out of control. Cancer cells can grow pretty much in any body part and spread throughout the whole body.
Anal cancer refers to the lump of abnormal and atypical cells in the anus area, at the opening of the rectum, and therefore should not be confused with colorectal cancer which refers to the intestine and the entire rectum.
Anal cancer cases have been increasing over several decades. Infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) is the major risk factor for anal cancer.
- Anal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the anus.
- Most anal cancers are related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
- Signs of anal cancer include bleeding from the anus or rectum or a lump near the anus.
- Tests that examine the rectum and anus are used to diagnose anal cancer.
- Certain factors affect the prognosis (chance of recovery) and treatment options.
Anal cancer symptoms
Signs of anal cancer include bleeding from the anus or rectum or a lump near the anus.These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by anal cancer or by other conditions. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Atypical bowel movements
- Atypical anus discharge
- Hard area or lump around the anus
- Anal bleeding
- Soreness or pain in the anus
- Itching and irritation in the anus
Risk factors for anal cancer
- Being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Having a condition or disease that causes a weakened immune system, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or an organ transplant.
- Having a personal history of vulvar, vaginal, or cervical cancers.
- Having many sexual partners.
- Having receptive anal intercourse (anal sex).
- Smoking cigarettes.
How to Detect Anal Cancer?
1. Digital Rectum Exam
You might find this exam uncomfortable, but it is really important for detecting anal cancer in the early stages of development. First, the doctor examines the outside of the anus and looks if there are any hemorrhoids or fissures. Then, the doctor examines the inside of the anus with their fingers in the anal cavity and looks for any lumps or abnormalities.
2. Anoscopy
Anoscope is a small instrument that looks like a tube that provides a clearer view of the anus cavity. The doctor inserts this instrument in the anus and searches for any anal infections, hemorrhoids, fissures, polyps, or tumors. This method is applied only if the doctor notices something abnormal during the first digital rectum exam.
3. X-rays, Ultrasounds, Biopsies, CT Scans, and Pet Scans
All of the listed procedures may be used for early detection of anal cancer. Still, all of these methods are quite controversial since they are actually considered to cause or spread cancer.
To Learn More About Anal Cancer
For more information from the National Cancer Institute about anal cancer, see the following:
- Anal Cancer Home Page
- Tobacco (includes help with quitting)
- Human Papillomaviruses and Cancer
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