Anal Cancer

Anal cancer is not considered to be genetic (passed on from a parent to a child).

Most cases of anal cancer are caused as a result of contracting human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted disease. Factors which are known to increase the risk for development of anal cancers include your age, medical history, smoking habit and sexual activity.

Risk factors that have been associated with developing anal cancer include:

• Age – Anal cancer is more common in people aged over 50 years old

• Medical history – Anal cancer tends to be more common in people who have other diseases or disorders, including HPV, HIV/AIDS, anal warts or autoimmune diseases such as lupus or Graves’ disease. In women, history of abnormal cervical screening tests or previous cases of cancer in the cervix, vulva or vagina increase your risk of developing anal cancer

• Smoking – You may have an increased risk of developing anal cancer if you use tobacco

• Sexual activity – Having a higher number of sexual partners increases your risk of developing sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV and HPV, which can lead to an increased chance of developing anal cancer. There is also a correlation between an increased risk of anal cancer and regular receptive anal sex

Anal cancer is considered a rare type of cancer. In Australia, less than 500 people are usually diagnosed with anal cancer each year.

Haemorrhoids, or piles are soft lumps of enlarged blood vessels around and inside the anus. They usually result from a sudden increase in pressure – such as during pregnancy, constipation or heavy weightlifting.

Symptoms of haemorrhoids can include:

• Painful bowel motions

• Bright red blood on toilet tissue, or in the stool

• Extreme itching around the anal area

• A lump or swelling around the anus

Because the symptoms of haemorrhoids and anal cancer can be similar, it is extremely important that you see your GP or healthcare professional if you are experiencing any symptoms of haemorrhoids or anal cancer so that a diagnosis can be made.

Tests to diagnose anal cancer include:

• Blood tests to check for red blood cell counts, as well as liver and kidney function

• Examination and biopsy of the anal canal

• MRI scan

• Endorectal ultrasound

• CT scan

• FDG-PET scan

There is no national screening program for anal cancer in Australia.

Icon offers clinical trials across a wide range of cancer types and treatments. If you would like more information on participating in a clinical trial, please speak with your doctor who will be able to find a trial that might be right for you and your cancer.

See current clinical trials delivered by Icon Cancer Centre.

1. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2021, August 12). Anal cancer. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved January 13, 2022, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anal-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20354140

2. American Cancer Society. (2020, September 9). Risk factors for anal cancer. American Cancer Society. Retrieved January 13, 2022, from http://www.cancer.org/cancer/anal-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html

3. Cancer Council NSW. (2021, June 28). Anal cancer. Cancer Council NSW. Retrieved January 13, 2022, from http://www.cancercouncil.com.au/anal-cancer/