Anal Cancer

This leaflet is designed to provide you with information about anal cancer. It aims to explain what anal cancer is, its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and ways to cope with the condition. Please remember that this leaflet is not a substitute for medical advice, and if you have any concerns or questions about anal cancer, contact us or your GP.

What is Anal Cancer?

Anal cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the bottom or anus. The anus is the opening at the end of the digestive tract where poo leaves the body. Anal cancer develops when cells in the anal canal grow abnormally and form a tumour.

Causes of Anal Cancer:

90% of anal cancers are caused by high-risk strains of the Human papillomavirus (HPV).
Other risk factors include:

• Weakened immune system
• Smoking
• Anal sex
• Age (risk increases with age)
• History of certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Other cancers or precancers of the vulva, cervix and scrotum

Symptoms of Anal Cancer

Symptoms of anal cancer may include:

• Bleeding from the bottom or blood in the poo
• Anal pain or discomfort
• Anal itching
• A change in how often you poo
• A lump around the bottom
• Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

If anal cancer is suspected, your healthcare provider may perform the following tests to
diagnose the condition:

• Physical examination, including an examination of the bottom
• High-Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) using a microscope to visualize the anal canal
• Biopsy to remove a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope
• Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, or PET scan to determine the extent of the cancer

Treatment Options

Treatment for anal cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and may include:

• Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells or shrink tumours
• Chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells or prevent them from growing and spreading
• Surgery to remove the cancerous tissue (local excision or abdominoperineal resection)
• Targeted therapy or immunotherapy for advanced cases

Coping and Support

Coping with a diagnosis of anal cancer can be challenging, but you are not alone. Here are some tips for coping and finding support:

• Stay informed about your condition and treatment options
• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
• Take care of your physical and emotional well-being
• Ask your healthcare provider about resources for counselling or support services

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to ask us.

Contact Information: chelwest.anogenitaldysplasiaservice@nhs.net

Anal cancer is a rare but treatable condition. Early detection and prompt treatment can improve outcomes and quality of life. If you have any concerns about anal cancer or notice any symptoms, consult your GP for evaluation and guidance.

For more information and support, you can contact organisations such as Cancer Research UK.

References:
1)https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/aboutcancer/analcancer/symptomsgad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwyo60BhBiEiwAHmVLJWLBmeIBTMUQF_JM89CLnRoJtirbBSqBfoGyHvrO7OWnz4kazrqChoCMccQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
2) Lupi, Micol, et al. "Anal cancer in high-risk women: the lost tribe." Cancers 15.1 (2022): 60.