Anal cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the anus, which is the final part of the digestive system where waste exits the body. This cancer develops when cells in the anus or the anal canal––the passage connecting the anus to the rectum––begin to grow and multiply abnormally, forming a tumor. This tumor can either block the canal or spread to nearby tissues and organs.
The symptoms of anal cancer often resemble those of hemorrhoids, such as rectal bleeding or lumps around the anus. If you notice changes like these, it’s important to see a healthcare provider to determine if anal cancer is the cause. Although most anal cancers are not very aggressive, catching it early is crucial since early detection leads to better survival rates.
Anal cancer is relatively rare, with only about a 1 in 500 chance of being diagnosed over a lifetime. It tends to occur more often in older adults, with most diagnoses happening in people’s early 60s. The type of anal cancer can vary based on where the cancer started within the anus. Because the symptoms appear in a part of the digestive tract that doctors can easily examine, anal cancer is often found early. However, not everyone with anal cancer will have symptoms—about 20% of people might not notice anything, especially in the early stages when the cancer hasn’t spread.
Cancer, including anal cancer, results from cell mutations, which are changes in the genes and DNA that regulate cell growth and function. The specific cause of these mutations in anal cells is unknown, but researchers have found several factors that may increase the risk. Anal cancer appears more frequently in white women and Black men and is more common in people over 50.
If anal cancer is suspected, a healthcare provider will conduct a physical exam and review your personal and family medical history. They may also perform additional tests to confirm the diagnosis. The main goal in treating anal cancer is to eliminate all cancer cells. Treatment options vary depending on the tumor’s size, location, and progression, as well as its response to any prior treatment.
Typically, a combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy is used to treat anal cancer. Radiation therapy involves using high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. This is usually done with a machine outside the body, but sometimes a tube with radioactive substances is placed directly into the anus. Chemotherapy works by killing cancer cells or preventing their growth. It can be taken orally or administered through a vein, allowing the medication to spread throughout the body.
For smaller tumors, surgery might be sufficient instead of radiation and chemotherapy. Healthcare providers may suggest different types of surgery depending on the tumor’s size and location. Immunotherapy, which helps the immune system fight cancer cells, is another treatment option. This therapy is often given intravenously and includes substances derived from living organisms. The frequency and duration of immunotherapy depend on how advanced the cancer is and the body’s response to the treatment.
Researchers are continuously testing new treatments in clinical trials. One experimental treatment is radiosensitizers, which make tumor cells more responsive to radiotherapy. If you’re interested in participating in a clinical trial, consult your healthcare provider to see if it’s a suitable option for you. You can choose to leave the trial at any time if needed.
Since the exact cause of anal cancer is unknown, there’s no sure way to prevent it. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk. Being diagnosed with anal cancer can evoke feelings of fear, stress, and anxiety, but there is a strong potential for successful treatment. If the cancer hasn’t spread beyond the original site, there’s an 83% chance of surviving at least five years. If it has spread to nearby areas, the five-year survival rate is about 67%.
Your chances of long-term survival and achieving remission improve with appropriate treatment. Trust your healthcare team to provide the best care, and learning more about your condition can help you become an active participant in your treatment plan. Support from family and friends is invaluable during this time, so don’t hesitate to lean on them. Be open to accepting both physical and emotional support, and make sure to prioritize self-care and advocate for your own health.
